Conspicuity devices and methods

ABSTRACT

The invention provides conspicuity devices and methods. A first embodiment includes a tool band and an elongate lighting device adapted and configured to admit light having an advantageous spectral energy distribution. The device can have many additional and/or alternative passive and/or active conspicuity features, such as lasers, lamps, photoluminescent and retroreflective materials, among others.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit ofpriority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/106,301, filed Apr. 20,2008, which in turn is a continuation-in part of and claims the benefitof priority to International Patent Application No. PCT/US07/00653,filed Jan. 10, 2007, which in turn claims the benefit of priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/757,623 filed Jan. 10,2006, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/772,073 filed Feb.10, 2006 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/795,332filed Apr. 26, 2006. This application is a continuation-in-part of andclaims the benefit of priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/106,301, filed Apr. 20, 2008, which in turn claims the benefit ofpriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/925,175filed Apr. 19, 2007, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/947,801, filed Jul. 3, 2007, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.No. 60/972,227, filed Sep. 13, 2007 and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 60/975,140, filed Sep. 25, 2007. This applicationis also a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priority toU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/413,561, filed Mar. 29, 2009, whichin turn is a continuation-in-part of and claims the benefit of priorityto U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/836,885, filed Aug. 10, 2007.Each of the aforementioned patent applications is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a conspicuity device and method forproviding ready identification of an object or individual. Particularly,the present invention is directed to a conspicuity device and methodthat is capable for providing ready identification of an object orindividual in an environment of reduced visibility such as darkness/andor smoke.

2. Description of Related Art

A variety of devices are generally known in the art for providingenhanced visibility of objects or individuals. Of such devices, many aredirected to devices and systems for use in smoky and/or darkenvironments.

It can be appreciated that lighting devices on helmets, for example,have been in use for many years. Typically, such lighting devices arecomprised of conventional flashlights and similar battery-operatedwarning devices that project light in a unidirectional beam. The mainproblem with such conventional devices include, for example, the size ofthe devices and cumbersome power supply attachments that frequentlyaccompany them. Another significant problem with such conventionaldevices are that flashlights and light projecting devices tend togenerate light only in the visible region, particularly white light.Such light typically reflected, for example, in smoky conditions andeven absorbed by particles of haze and smoke.

Other passive devices have also been used, such as reflective materialsand the like. Such passive devices are of limited utility, as they donot emit any light in low visibility conditions or complete darkness.

In short, while these devices may be suitable for the particular purposeto which they address, they are not as suitable for a device that willenable, for example, individuals wearing helmets working in varioustypes of low visibility conditions, to be seen by others.

Furthermore, utility straps or tool bands for helmets and a variety ofother similar devices have been used for years. Typically a helmetutility strap or helmet tool band is made of a flexible material thatconforms to the outer shell of a helmet. The common design which isfound, is a one piece circular band or strap which is made of a rubberor elastic material. However, such bands suffer from a number ofdeficiencies.

Significant problems with conventional utility straps or tool bands forhelmets include their inability, for example: (1) to adjust to varioustypes of helmets, (2) to open or close, (3) to mount on a helmetsecurely, (4) to provide for the safe keeping of tools, (5) to offerheat and flame resistance, and (6) to offer effective conspicuity inpotential hazardous situations where low visibility prevents one frombeing seen.

As can be seen, there still remains a continued need in the art forimproved devices and methods for enhancing visibility of individuals,such as emergency workers such as firemen. There also remains a need inthe art for such devices that are inexpensive and easy to make. Thepresent invention provides a solution for these and other problems, asdescribed herein.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The purpose and advantages of the present invention will be set forth inand become apparent from the description that follows. Additionaladvantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the methodsand systems particularly pointed out in the written description andclaims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings.

To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purposeof the invention, as embodied herein, in accordance with one aspect, theinvention includes a tool band having a first end and a second end. Thetool band further includes an elongate fire resistant webbing portion, afire resistant elastic portion attached to the webbing portion, and acoupling portion adapted and configured to selectively attach the firstend of the band to the second end of the band.

In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the webbing portionof the tool band may be made at least in part from aramid fibers. Forexample, the webbing portion may be made at least in part from KEVLARmaterial. If desired, the elastic portion may also be made at least inpart from aramid fibers. For example, the elastic portion may be made atleast in part from NOMEX material. One or more loops can be provided forthe tool band that are attached to the webbing portion. The loop(s) arepreferably adapted and configured to hold an object. The loops may bemade from an elastic material, such as NOMEX material. Each of the loopsdefine a passage therethrough. The passages may be generally transverseto the webbing portion of the tool band, parallel to the tool band orangled obliquely with respect to the tool band. The ends of the toolband may be attached to one another in a variety of manners, includinghook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro® material), buckle mechanisms(e.g., Fastex buckles made from nylon), snaps, buttons, hooks and thelike.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the tool band canbe further provided with a conspicuity device attached thereto. Theconspicuity device can include passive retroreflective materials such asREFLEXITE® materials, materials commercially available from Corporation(Springfield, Mass.) or other suitable microprismatic materials, and/orretroreflective photoluminescent materials that glow in the dark whenproperly charged. If desired, the conspicuity device can additionally oralternatively include one or more lighting devices. For example,suitable lighting devices can include one or more electroluminescentelements, one or more lasers and one or more work lights. Theelectroluminescent lamp may be affixed to the webbing and be adapted andconfigured to emit light. Preferably, the lamp has at least one elongateelectroluminescent element defining a longitudinal axis and a transverseaxis, the electroluminescent element having a plurality of relativelywide emitting segments disposed along the longitudinal axis connected toeach other by a relatively narrow emitting segment. Any suitable lasercan also be provided in the tool band, for example, for pointing atobjects and/or for acting as a location indicator of the wearer.

The tool band preferably is also provided with a power source attachedto the band. The power source is preferably adapted and configured topower one or more of the lighting devices. The work light can be any oneof a suitable number of different devices. In accordance with apreferred embodiment, the work light is an LED lamp. Even morepreferably, the LED lamp has a light output between about 500 and about1500 candlepower, preferably about 1000 candlepower. The work light canbe a removable flashlight that may be rechargeable, or may be integrallyformed with the tool band, and be amiably mounted, as desired.

The disclosure further provides a tool band having a first end and asecond end. The tool band includes an elongate webbing portion that maybe fire resistant, an elastic portion that may be fire resistantattached to the webbing portion, a coupling portion adapted andconfigured to selectively attach the first end of the band to the secondend of the band, and an elongate lighting device attached to the toolband having a first end and a second end, the elongate lighting devicedefining a longitudinal axis bound by the first end and second end and atransverse axis, wherein the elongate lighting device defines aplurality of spaced relatively bright emitting segments separated byrelatively dimmer emitting segments.

In accordance with a further aspect, the webbing portion and the elasticportion can be made at least in part from aramid fibers. The tool bandcan further include at least one elastic loop attached to the webbingportion, the loop including aramid fibers, and being adapted andconfigured to hold an object, wherein the loop defines a passagetherethrough that is generally transverse to the webbing portion of thetool band. The elongate lighting device is preferably adapted andconfigured to emit light in a spectrum having a peak at about 500 nm.The lighting device preferably emits light in a spectrum thatsubstantially coincides with the sensitivity of the human eye in darkconditions. The lighting device can include an electroluminescent lamp.The electroluminescent lamp can be defined by a plurality of arrow-likeshapes. The tool band can further include a power source furtherincluding an electrical inverter interposed in an operable electricalcircuit between a battery and the electroluminescent lamp. The inverteris preferably adapted and configured to output an electrical signal at afrequency of about 3000 Hz to power the electroluminescent lamp. Theelectroluminescent lamp is preferably adapted and configured to have apeak emission at about 504 nm when driven by a 400 Hz electrical signalat 110 Vrms. The tool band is preferably flexible, elongate, and isadapted and configured to be attached to a plurality of objects.

In accordance with a further aspect, the tool band can further includean elongate fire-resistant encasement adapted and configured to housethe elongate lighting device, wherein the encasement includes aplurality of layers of material bonded together to define a compartmentbetween the layers adapted and configured to receive the elongatelighting device. A first layer can include a retroreflective polymericmaterial including a plurality of microprismatic reflective elements.The encasement can include photoluminescent material, such as strontiumaluminate. The first layer can have a retroreflective value of about 650cd/lux/m² (cpl) when measured in accordance with NFPA 1971, 2000edition. The elongate lighting device is preferably adapted andconfigured to emit sufficient light to permit visibility of the devicefrom a distance of about five feet in an environment rendered opaque bysmoke.

If desired, the elongate lighting device can include a plurality ofspaced LED elements disposed inside of a polymeric tubular member. Thetubular member is preferably translucent or transparent, and conductslight along its length and through its side wall so as to define areasof brightness proximate the LEDs, and dimmer areas between the LEDs, aswould be visible to an observer of the band in operation, thus resultingin an elongate lighting device having a plurality of spaced relativelybright emitting segments separated by relatively dimmer emittingsegments. The tubular member is preferably attached to and comprises aportion of the encasement. If desired, the polymeric tubular member canbe tinted so that a preselected spectral distribution of light generatedby the LEDs passes through the tubular member. The preselected spectraldistribution preferably has a peak between 480 nm and 520 nm.

In further accordance with the invention, the tool band can have one ormore suitable tools mounted therein. Such tools can include, forexample, one or more door wedges, lighting mechanisms, and wrenches,among others. If desired, a communication device, such as a radio orportable telephone can also be mounted in or integrated with the toolband.

The invention also provides a conspicuity device. The device includes anelectroluminescent lamp adapted and configured to emit light, the lamphaving at least one elongate electroluminescent element defining alongitudinal axis and a transverse axis, the electroluminescent elementhaving a plurality of relatively wide emitting segments disposed alongthe longitudinal axis connected to each other by a relatively narrowemitting segment.

In further accordance with the invention, the elongate element can becontinuous or interrupted and formed from one or more pieces ofmaterial. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, therelatively narrow emitting segment may have a width along the transverseaxis that is less than the width along the transverse axis of at leastone of the relatively wide emitting segments. The plurality ofrelatively wide emitting segments may have an average width along thetransverse axis between about three quarters of an inch and about oneeighth of an inch. More preferably, the plurality of relatively wideemitting segments may have an average width along the transverse axisbetween about one half of an inch and about one quarter of an inch. Evenmore preferably, the plurality of relatively wide emitting segments havean average width along the transverse axis of about one quarter of aninch.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the relativelynarrow emitting segment may have an average width along the transverseaxis that is between about three quarters and about one quarter thewidth of an adjacent relatively wide emitting segment. If desired, therelatively narrow emitting segment may have an average width along thetransverse axis that is about half the width of an adjacent relativelywide emitting segment.

By way of further example, the relatively narrow emitting segment mayhave a length along the longitudinal axis that is less than the lengthalong the longitudinal axis of at least one of the relatively wideemitting segments. If desired, the plurality of relatively wide emittingsegments have an average length along the longitudinal axis betweenabout three inches and about one half of an inch. More preferably, theplurality of relatively wide emitting segments may have an averagelength along the longitudinal axis between about two inches and aboutone inch. Most preferably, the plurality of relatively wide emittingsegments have an average length along the longitudinal axis of about oneand one half inches.

In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, the relativelynarrow emitting segment can have an average length along thelongitudinal axis that is between about three quarters and about onequarter the length of an adjacent relatively wide emitting segment. Morepreferably, the relatively narrow emitting segment has an average lengthalong the longitudinal axis that is about one third the length of anadjacent relatively wide emitting segment.

In accordance with still a further aspect of the invention, the devicepreferably further includes a plurality of electrical conductorsoperably coupled to the electroluminescent element. Additionally, thedevice also may include a power source operably coupled to theelectroluminescent element by way of the plurality of electricalconductors. The power source preferably includes at least one batteryoperably coupled to the electrical conductors. If desired, the batterymay be rechargeable and/or removable from the device. In accordance withone embodiment of the invention, the device can emit light for more thanabout eight hours before the battery requires charging or replacement.In accordance with another embodiment, the device can emit light formore than about ten hours during an operating mode that providesconstant illumination. In accordance with still another embodiment ofthe invention, the device can emit light for more than about forty hoursduring an operating mode that provides intermittent illumination.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the power source canfurther include an electrical inverter interposed in a circuit betweenthe battery and the electroluminescent element. Preferably, the powersource is operably coupled to at least one of the electrical conductorsby a switch. The switch can be adapted and configured to permitselection of at least one operating mode of the device. For example, byusing the switch, various operating modes such as constant andintermittent operation can be selected.

In yet further accordance with the invention, the device may include anencasement adapted and configured to house the electroluminescentelement. In accordance with one embodiment, the encasement includes aplurality of layers of material bonded together to define a compartmentbetween the layers adapted and configured to receive theelectroluminescent element. The compartment may be defined by a sealabout its periphery. The seal may include at least one of a heat seal, asolvent weld, an ultrasonic weld, stitching and an adhesive seal, amongothers. At least one layer of the encasement includes polymericmaterial. Preferably, all layers of the encasement include some amountof polymeric material. Preferably, the polymeric material is fireresistant. A number of suitable polymeric materials can be used,including various vinyl materials.

The encasement preferably includes a polymeric base layer upon which theelectroluminescent element is positioned. A clear lens layer is thenaffixed to the base layer, trapping the electroluminescent elementbetween the two layers. The lens layer is preferably formed from a vinylmaterial. Even more preferably, the vinyl lens layer is heat resistant,and permits passage of visible light and ultraviolet light therethrough.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the polymeric baselayer preferably includes retroreflective material. For example, thebase polymeric base layer may include a plurality of microprismreflective elements integrally bonded to the polymeric material. Inaccordance with one embodiment, the polymeric base layer has aretroreflective value in excess of 350 cd/lux/m² (cpl) when measured inaccordance with NFPA 1971, 2000 edition. Preferably, the layer has aretroreflective value of about 650 cd/lux/m² (cpl). The polymeric baselayer may also be bonded to a fabric-reinforced polymeric backingmaterial. For example, the polymeric base layer can be formed fromREFLEXITE® material, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,801,193, U.S.Pat. No. 4,244,683, U.S. Pat. No. 4,243,618, U.S. Pat. No. 4,202,600,U.S. Pat. No. 4,555,161, U.S. Pat. No. 5,171,624, U.S. Pat. No.5,264,063 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,229,882. All of these patents areincorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

If desired, the polymeric base layer of the encasement may additionallyor alternatively include photoluminescent retroreflective material. Suchmaterials are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,415,911, U.S.Pat. No. 6,159,878, U.S. Pat. No. 6,569,786, and U.S. Pat. No.6,656,566. Each of these patents is incorporated by reference herein inits entirety. The photoluminescent retroreflective material ispreferably charged by exposure to ultraviolet light. Preferably, theretroreflective photoluminescent material includes photoluminescentelements including strontium aluminate. Other materials, such as zincsulfide photoluminescent elements may also be used. Comparativelyspeaking, strontium aluminate retroreflective material tends to have ahigher brightness and longer afterglow, which may be desirable incertain applications. These photoluminescent crystals (e.g., strontiumaluminate) may be are cast into a polymeric material such as a pliablePVC vinyl, and used in a manner similar to the REFLEXITE® material.

In further accordance with one embodiment of the conspicuity deviceprovided by the invention, the electroluminescent lamp can be adaptedand configured to emit a majority of photons in a wavelength range ofabout 500 nm. The spectral energy distribution of certain embodiments ofthe lamp demonstrate a peak distribution at about 500 nm, extremelyclose to the peak sensitivity of the human eye in darkness of about 507nm. As such, these embodiments of the invention are particularly tunedfor maximum performance in a dark and/or smoky environment. As such,while the electroluminescent lamp is adapted and configured to emitgenerally blue light, a significant amount of generally greenwavelengths are also preferably present. Such emission can be ensured byselecting an appropriate frequency for powering the electroluminescentlamp, as described herein.

In further accordance with the invention, effective peak intensities forthe lamp are between about 0.05 Candela and 0.15 Candela. In accordancewith one example, the peak intensity for the lamp is about 0.13 Candela.Surprisingly, such a lamp is nonetheless highly visible in a dark, smokyenvironment. In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, thelamp is adapted and configured to emit sufficient light to permitvisibility of the device from a distance of about three to six fee in ablack smoky environment.

In still further accordance with the invention, the elongateelectroluminescent element is a monolithic structure formed from asingle sheet of electroluminescent material. In accordance with oneaspect of the invention, the lamp can be adapted and configured tooperate in a first operating mode wherein the lamp is on constantly anda second operating mode wherein the lamp blinks. If desired, the lampcan be adapted and configured to transmit a distress signal in thesecond operating mode.

In accordance with still a further aspect of the invention, an articleof clothing, such as a helmet, jacket, pair of trousers and/or footwearis provided. Accordingly, a helmet may be provided including a generallyrigid protective shell, and an electroluminescent conspicuity device asdescribed herein. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention,the conspicuity device is disposed about less than the entire peripheryof the helmet. For example, the conspicuity device may be disposed aboutmore than about 40% and less than about 90% of the periphery of thehelmet. Preferably, the conspicuity device is not disposed proximate thefront of the helmet in order to reduce exposure of the conspicuitydevice to heat of a fire in use. Accordingly, the helmet may be afirefighter's helmet.

The invention also provides a conspicuity device including a bandadapted and configured to be mounted to an object and a laser beaconmounted on the band.

In further accordance with the invention, an electroluminescent lamp maybe mounted on the band. The electroluminescent lamp may be similar tothose described above, among others. A power source may also be mountedon the band for powering at least one of the lamp and the beacon. Ifdesired, the conspicuity device may further include a LED work lightmounted on the band. If desired, the power source may be adapted andconfigured to power at least one of the lamp, the beacon and the worklight. By way of further example, if desired, the conspicuity device mayfurther include a global positioning device.

In still further accordance with the invention, the laser beacon of theconspicuity device may be mounted in a loop attached to the band. Ifdesired, the laser beacon may be rotatably mounted to the band. By wayof further example, the laser beacon may be pivotally mounted andweighted (e.g., by a pendulum) to direct a beam vertically upward whenin use to form a signal beacon. The laser can be adapted and configuredto emit light in a variety of wavelengths. For example, the laser canemit, green, blue or violet lights, among others.

The beam of the laser beacon can have a variety of shapes. For example,the laser can emit a collimated beam of light or a diverging beam oflight, as desired. The beam is preferably not too narrow. For example,in accordance with one embodiment, the laser is preferably adapted andconfigured to emit a beam having a diameter in excess of one centimeterat a point in the beam more than twenty feet from the laser.

In further accordance with the invention, the laser can include a lasergenerator adapted and configured to generate a substantially parallelbeam, and a first lens downstream from the laser generator adapted andconfigured to cause the parallel beam to diverge as it passes throughthe first lens. If desired, the laser can further include a housing forholding the first lens and laser generator, and a second lens disposedin the path of the beam downstream from the first lens. The second lensis preferably adapted and configured to cause the diverging beam passingfrom the first lens to be substantially collimated. If desired, thedistance along the beam path between the first lens and second lens canbe adjusted to change the diameter of the beam passing from the secondlens. For example, the distance between the lenses may be adjusted byrotating a portion of the housing. Accordingly, the diameter of the beamleaving the laser can be adjusted from a diameter of about one eighth ofan inch to a diameter of about one half inch.

In still further accordance with the invention, the housing of theconspicuity device may define a compartment for receiving a battery forpowering the laser. If desired, the laser may also be configured tooperate in a plurality of operating modes. For example, the laser can beoperated in a first operating mode wherein the laser is on constantly,and a second operating mode wherein the laser blinks. In accordance withone aspect of the invention, the laser is preferably adapted andconfigured to transmit a distress signal in the second operating mode.

The invention also provides a method for making a conspicuity device.The method includes providing an elongate electroluminescent element,and bonding a plurality of layers of material to each other to define anencasement having an elongate compartment for receiving the elongateelectroluminescent element.

In further accordance with the invention, the plurality of layers ofmaterial can include a base layer onto which the electroluminescentelement is placed, and a lens layer that is placed on top of the baselayer and the electroluminescent element. The base layer can be madefrom any suitable material, including a retroreflective polymericmaterial that may be photoluminescent, as described herein. If desired,the encasement may then be attached to a piece of base material. Thebase material may include any combination of webbing and elasticmaterial as described herein. Preferably, the base material is fireresistant. By way of further example, the base material can include anysuitable article of clothing, such as a jacket, a shirt, a pair oftrousers or shorts, footwear such as boots or sneakers and headgear suchas helmets, hats or headbands or a sash, among others.

The invention also provides a method of providing improved conspicuityin an environment rendered opaque by smoke and/or darkness. The methodincludes providing an illuminative device to an object to be givenconspicuity, and causing the illuminative device to emit light having awavelength equal to or shorter than about 550 nm. More preferably, theilluminative device emits light having a wavelength equal to or shorterthan about 510 nm. If desired, the light emitted by the illuminativedevice may have a wavelength equal to or shorter than about 475 nm. Byway of further example, the light emitted by the illuminative device mayhave a wavelength equal to or shorter than about 445 nm or 400 nm. Asthe wavelength of the emitted light progresses below 500 nm, the devicesmay be more useful in applications where it is desired to view an objectfrom a long distance away. If desired, the illuminative device mayinclude a laser, a lamp having an electroluminescent element and/or anLED lamp, among others.

The invention also provides a flashlight. The flashlight includes adirect current power source, a lamp operably coupled to the powersource, and an electrical inverter operably coupled to the power sourcefor converting direct current to alternating current.

In further accordance with the invention, the flashlight of theinvention may include an electrical port operably coupled to theelectrical inverter for supplying alternating current to another device.The flashlight can include a variety of direct current power supplies,such as conventional and/or rechargeable batteries, and the like. Ifdesired, the flashlight can also include an electrical generator thatcan generate electricity and store it in a battery during periods ofextended use. The generator can be used to generate power, for example,by shaking the flashlight, by turning a generating crank, and the like.Suitable examples of generating schemes are described, for example, inU.S. Pat. No. 6,994,450, U.S. Pat. No. 6,914,340, U.S. Pat. No.6,563,269 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,233. Each of these patents isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety. If desired, theflashlight can also include a DC power port for powering a DC accessory,such as a laser as described herein.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a conspicuity deviceis provided including an electroluminescent lamp, and a flashlightoperably coupled to the electroluminescent lamp; wherein electricalpower is drawn from the flashlight to power the electroluminescent lamp.

In further accordance with the invention, the conspicuity device canfurther include an inverter adapted and configured to convert directcurrent to alternating current for powering the electroluminescent lamp.If desired, the inverter may be integrally formed with theelectroluminescent lamp. Alternatively, the inverter may be integrallyformed with the flashlight.

In accordance with still another aspect, the invention provides alighting device including a light source having a spectral energydistribution that is specifically adapted and configured tosubstantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of the human eye in oneor more viewing conditions.

In further accordance with the invention, the spectral energydistribution of the light source may be specifically adapted andconfigured to substantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of thehuman eye in photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic conditions. The overlapof the spectral distribution of the light source and the sensitivity ofthe human eye can be less than or equal to about 100%, about 95%, about90%, about 85%, and so on in any suitable increments (e.g., of 1% or 5%for example) until the overlap ceases to have a performance advantage byvirtue of the overlap. For example, there may only be a 20% overlap, butthe 20% overlap may lie in a region of particular sensitivity of thehuman eye. For example, in darkness conditions, the human eye is mostsensitive to light having a wavelength of about 507 nm. As such, a lighthaving even a small portion of its spectral distribution (e.g., about10%) at or near 507 nm may demonstrate significant visibility.

In further accordance with the invention, the lighting device mayinclude an active lighting device and/or a passive lighting device. Forexample, if the lighting device is active, it may be selected from thegroup including (i) a running light for a car, (ii) an illuminated sign,(iii) an illuminated warning signal (iii) an interior building light,(iv) a street light, (v) a reading light, (vi) a flashlight (vii) alight emitting diode and (viii) electroluminescent material, amongothers. If the lighting device is passive, the device may includephotoluminescent material and/or retroreflective material. If it ispassive, the lighting device may selected from the group including (i) asurface of a motor vehicle, (ii) a road sign, (iii) a fence (iii) aninterior surface of a building and (iv) paint, among others.

In further accordance with the invention, a method of constructing alighting device is provided. The method includes providing anelectroluminescent lamp, and selecting a power source for powering theelectroluminescent lamp having a frequency and voltage output that willcause the electroluminescent lamp to have a spectral energy distributionthat is specifically adapted and configured to substantially overlap thespectral sensitivity of the human eye.

In further accordance with the invention, the voltage and frequency ofthe power source may be selected such that the spectral energydistribution of the electroluminescent lamp is specifically adapted andconfigured to substantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of thehuman eye in photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic conditions.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and are intended toprovide further explanation of the invention claimed.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute partof this specification, are included to illustrate and provide a furtherunderstanding of the method and system of the invention. Together withthe description, the drawings serve to explain the principles of theinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1(A)-1(B) are partial views of a representative embodiment of aconspicuity device provided in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an encasement made to house a conspicuitydevice made in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of anelectroluminescent element made in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an exemplary power supply for anelectroluminescent lamp in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a graph depicting the spectral energy distribution of anexemplary electroluminescent lamp made in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 6 is a graph depicting the intensity of an exemplaryelectroluminescent lamp made in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 7(A)-7(E) and FIGS. 8(A)-8(E) depict articles of clothingembodying technology provided in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 9(A)-9(B) and FIGS. 10(A)-10(P) depict aspects of a laser beaconprovided in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 11(A)-11(G) depict various views of a tool band including anelectroluminescent lamp and a work light alone, and mounted on a helmet,in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 12(A)-12(F) depict various views of features of a novel work lightprovided in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 13(A)-13(M) depict various views of a modular power sourceprovided in accordance with the invention.

FIGS. 14(A)-14(B) depict views of a belt made in accordance with theinvention.

FIG. 14(C) depicts a container such as a bag made in accordance with theinvention.

FIGS. 15(A)-15(I) depict various views of another embodiment of amodular power source provided in accordance with the invention.

FIGS. 16(A)-16(E) depict views of another embodiment of a work lightmade in accordance with the invention.

FIGS. 17(A)-17(D) depict a helmet including devices made in accordancewith the invention.

FIGS. 18-20 illustrate embodiments of the disclosure used in accordancewith assistance of takeoff and landing of aircraft and other aspects.

FIGS. 21-24 illustrate embodiments of the disclosure used in accordancewith traffic applications.

FIGS. 25-27 illustrate embodiments of the disclosure used in accordancewith various vehicles.

FIGS. 28-32 illustrate embodiments of the disclosure used in accordancewith varying personal safety equipment.

FIG. 33 illustrates an embodiment of the disclosure used for directingtraffic.

FIG. 34 illustrates an embodiment of the disclosure including a firearm.

FIG. 35 illustrates an embodiment of the disclosure including an infantstroller.

FIG. 36 illustrates various views of a further embodiment of aconspicuity device made in accordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 37 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 38 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 39 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 40 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 41 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 42 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 43 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 44 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

FIG. 45 illustrates further aspects of conspicuity devices made inaccordance with the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferredembodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings. The method and corresponding steps of theinvention will be described in conjunction with the detailed descriptionof the system.

The devices and methods presented herein may be used for myriadpurposes. Generally, the devices described herein may be used forproviding enhanced visibility in photopic, mesopic and/or scotopicconditions, as appropriate. The present invention is particularly suitedfor providing enhanced visibility in emergency situations involvingsmoke, haze and/or darkness.

The inability for the common helmet utility strap or tool band to adjustlengthwise presents several problems. Over time a loop of fixed lengthmade of rubber or elastic material when conformed to a shape will loseits elasticity. This will eventually prevent the device from effectivelymaintaining its elastic tension around a helmet, for example. Typically,when this occurs the user must discard the device because it isineffective. Moreover, the lack of tension that occurs directlycompromises the safe keeping of tools or other devices reliant on theconstant elastic tension required for effective mounting on a helmet.The novel and useful improvements described herein offer a significantimprovement to conventional designs.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a tool band is providedincluding one or more loops for holding tools.

For purpose of explanation and illustration, and not limitation, apartial view of an exemplary embodiment of the tool band in accordancewith the invention is shown in FIG. 1 and is designated generally byreference character 100. Other embodiments of a tool band in accordancewith the invention, or aspects thereof, are provided in FIGS. 2-17, aswill be described.

As illustrated in FIG. 1(A), tool band 100 includes a first end 102, asecond end 104 and has an elongate flexible body 106. Preferably,flexible body portion 106 includes an elongate fire resistant webbingportion 108, a fire resistant elastic portion 110 attached to thewebbing portion, and a coupling portion 112 that is adapted andconfigured to selectively attach the first end 102 of the band 100 tothe second end 104 of the band 100.

The inability for the common helmet utility strap to provide heat andflame resistance when in extreme conditions is based strictly on thevery lack of heat and flame resistant properties of the materials usedin its construction. When a conventional utility strap or tool band madefrom non-heat-resistant material (e.g., rubber or elastic) is exposed toheat and flame, it can easily loose its elasticity resulting in a lossof tension and decreasing or eliminating its efficacy as a tool band.The potential also exists for the helmet utility strap to completelyfail by snapping or being burnt off.

The portions of tool band 100 may be made from a variety of materials.For example, the webbing portion 108 of the tool band 100 may be made atleast in part from aramid fibers. For example, the webbing portion 108may be made at least in part from KEVLAR™ material. A particular exampleof webbing can be one-inch wide KEVLAR™ webbing that passes the NationalFire Protection Act (“NFPA”) 1981 Heat Test & Flame Test. Such amaterial can be a modacrylic blend including, for example, 83% KEVLAR™material and 17% modacrylic material. Such webbing material may beobtained, for example, from Offray Specialty Narrow Fabrics, Inc.,located in Chester, N.J. 07930 (Tel: (908) 879-3636. Providing a band100 made from heat and flame resistant material presents a solution tothe dilemma described above.

If desired, the elastic portion may also be made at least in part fromaramid fibers. For example, the elastic portion may be made at least inpart from NOMEX™ material. An example of a suitable NOMEX™ materialincludes one-inch wide NOMEX™ material that passes the NFPA 1981 HeatTest & Flame Test. Such material may be about 50% NOMEX™ material andabout 50% elastic material. Such material can also be obtained fromOffray Specialty Narrow Fabrics, Inc.

The inability for the common helmet utility strap to provide the safekeeping of tools is consistent with its very basic design. The commonapplication of a helmet utility strap or tool band is to trap a toolbetween the material of the band and the surface of the helmet. Thetension of the elasticity of the band is used to secure the tool againstthe helmet. Although very basic, this method of trapping a tool isactually very inefficient for a variety of reasons. For example, such amethod of tool capture imposes significant wear on the elasticproperties of the band itself and causes it to lose its elasticity morequickly. Moreover, merely trapping a tool between the band and thehelmet does not guarantee that the tools will not shift during use,which can be very disconcerting when searching for a tool in one'sheadband in a very dark and/or smoky condition.

In order to address this deficiency in the art, as further depicted inFIG. 1(B), one or more loops 114 can be provided for the tool band 100that are preferably attached to the webbing portion 108. The loop(s) 114are preferably adapted and configured to hold an object, such as a tool.The loops 114 may be made from an elastic material, preferably a NOMEX™material as described above. Each of the loops 114 defines a passage 116therethrough. The passages 116 may be generally transverse to thewebbing portion 108 of the tool band, parallel to the tool band 100 orbe angled obliquely with respect to the tool band 100, as appropriate.By using elastic, preferably flame resistant secured tool loops 114 asdescribed herein, the placement of tools is exact, secure, and will notunduly cause the elasticity of the band 100 to wear out prematurely.

The ends 102, 104 of the tool band 100 may be attached to one another ina variety of manners, including hook and loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro®material), buckle mechanisms (e.g., Fastex buckles made from nylon),snaps, buttons, hooks and the like. In accordance with a preferredembodiment, a side release buckle 112 is provided having a male portion112 a and a female portion 112 b. Suitable buckles may be obtained fromHoma Locks, Inc., of Bethel, Conn. 06801 (Tel.: (203) 743-5913). Buckle112 preferably includes a length adjustment and is preferably made fromheat stabilized nylon 6/6.

By providing a tool band 100 that allows the opening and closing of theband provides better conformity of the band to a given helmet.Typically, mounting a conventional helmet utility strap requires thestrap to be stretched over the top of the helmet to establish a securefit. A band with a properly designed coupling, such as buckle 112permits the helmet utility strap to work in conjunction with associatedadjustability features to offer an optimal fit to the helmet. Moreover,if the user of a conventional helmet strap becomes snagged or entangled,for example, while in a burning building, the very life of the user isjeopardized by the fact that freeing oneself in such a situation is verydifficult without having to remove one's helmet. However, by providing acoupling, the strap can merely be disengaged, facilitating the user'sability to free themselves from the dangerous condition without removalof the helmet, which can help avoid unnecessary exposure to heat andsmoke.

The inability for the common helmet utility strap to mount on a helmetsecurely is consistent with its very basic design. A one piece circularband or strap which is made of a rubber or elastic material in manyinstances is unable to remain secured to a helmet for long periods oftime based on its elastic tension alone. The lack of elasticity causedover time, the constant handling of a helmet and the vibrationsexperienced by a helmet all contribute to the loosening of aconventionally designed helmet strap. To further help mitigate theseeffects, self-adhesive tabs having hook and loop fasteners (e.g.,Velcro® fasteners) 150 may be placed on the inside surface of tool band100 of the helmet utility strap to prevent the strap from easily failingoff a given helmet, should it become dislodged. A corresponding hook andloop fastener can be attached to the helmet of the wearer in a suitablelocation. In addition, other fasteners may be used in addition to hookand loop fasteners, such as snaps, hooks, buttons, tabs and the like.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the tool band canbe further provided with a conspicuity device attached thereto. Theconspicuity device can include one or more active and/or passivelighting devices.

For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as depicted in FIG. 1,the conspicuity device can include one or more active lighting devicesas described herein. For example, suitable active lighting devices caninclude one or more electroluminescent lamps 200, one or more lasers 300and one or more work lights 400.

The electroluminescent lamp 200, examples of which are described indetail below, may be affixed to the webbing 108 by various means (e.g.,stitching, adhesive, fasteners and the like) and be adapted andconfigured to emit light.

As further depicted in FIG. 1, a laser 300 can also be provided as aconspicuity device in the tool band 100, for example. Laser 300 can beused for pointing at objects and/or for acting as a location indicatorof the wearer or to transmit signals, as desired. Laser 300 and featuresthereof are described in further detail below.

As depicted in FIG. 1, tool band 100 can also be provided with a worklight 400. Work light can be any one of a number of different suitabledevices. In accordance with one embodiment, the work light is an LEDlamp or flashlight. The LED lamp or flashlight 400 can have a lightoutput between about 25 and about 1500 candlepower. Work light 400 canbe a removable flashlight that may be rechargeable, or may be integrallyformed with the tool band, and be amiably mounted, as desired. Otherembodiments of work light 400 are described in detail herein.

The tool band 100 is preferably also provided with one or more powersources for powering active devices used in combination with the band.If desired, the tool band can have additional suitable tools mountedtherein. Such tools can include, for example, one or more door wedges600, lighting mechanisms, and wrenches 700, among others. If desired, acommunication device 800, such as a radio, portable telephone and/orglobal positioning system can also be mounted in or integrated with thetool band 100.

As mentioned above, the invention provides a conspicuity deviceincluding an electroluminescent element.

For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein, thea conspicuity device in the form of an electroluminescent lamp 200 isprovided. Preferably, the lamp 200 has at least one elongateelectroluminescent element 210 defining a longitudinal axis L and atransverse axis W. As depicted, for example, in FIGS. 2 and 3, theelectroluminescent element 210 includes a plurality of relatively wideemitting segments or cells 220 disposed along the longitudinal axisconnected to each other by a relatively narrow emitting segment, orconnector, 230.

By using the “cell-connector” pattern as described above, the design ofthe lamp is optimized as compared to an electroluminescent strip 210 ofconstant width. Specifically, the disclosed “dashed” design requiresenergizing a smaller amount of surface area than a similar strip ofuniform width. As a result, for a given amount of power, the intensityof the light transmitted is higher from lamp 200. As such, lamp 200 isbrighter than if it had an element 210 of constant width along itslength.

In further accordance with the invention, the elongate element can be acontinuous, monolithic element (as depicted) or may be interrupted andformed from more than one piece of electroluminescent material. Suitableelectroluminescent material may be obtained, for example, fromMetroMark, Inc. of Minnetonka, Minn. 55343-8862 (Tel.: (800) 680-5556).

By way of further example, as illustrated in FIGS. 3(D)-3(H), a varietyof lamp shapes are provided including directional elements as opposed toa simple cell pattern. Specifically, various patterns of connectedarrow-shaped cell units 1220 are connected end to end in the depictedlamps 1210. As depicted, each cell unit includes a leading portion 1222,a trailing portion 1224 and a center portion 1226. If desired, cell unitmay include a point 1228, such as at the extremities of lamp 1210.Connecting portions 1230 may additionally be used to connect the cellunits to each other. As depicted, the patterns of FIGS. 3(D)-3(H) aredistinctive and likely to be visible and attract attention in anoccluded environment when illuminated. Moreover, provision of arrowshaped cells can help an observer familiar with the pattern to determinethe orientation of the lamp, and accordingly, the wearer.

Such electroluminescent material can be driven by an alternating currentelectrical power source at a particular voltage and frequency. Theparticular voltage and frequency selected will influence the coloremitted by the electroluminescent material, and hence the spectraldistribution of the light emitted by the electroluminescent material.For example, by increasing the frequency of the driving voltage, thelight emitted by the electroluminescent element progresses toward theblue, higher energy end of the visible spectrum. The EL emission processgenerates energy only over a limited range and thus causes light to beemitted only over a limited range of wavelengths. The result is arelatively pure visible color with a width at half maximum for theemission spectrum of approximately 70 nm. The emission is limited to thevisible wavelength range, so no energy is wasted in the near infrared.

The exemplary electroluminescent phosphors mentioned above come in adiscrete set of colors. These may be described by the colorscorresponding to the approximate wavelength of the maximum of theiremission. For example, for operation at 110V_(rms) at 400 Hz, “blue”phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 460 nm, “blue-green”phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 499 nm, “aviationgreen” phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 510 nm, “green”phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 504 nm and “amber”phosphors experience a maximum emission at about 584 nm.

As mentioned above, the color of every electroluminescent lamp changesas a function of the driving frequency. The colors described in thepreceding paragraph are measured at an excitation of 110V_(rms), 400 Hz.A phosphor that is green at this point will become blue if the frequencyof the drive is increased. For example, color changes will begin tobecome apparent as the frequency is increased to about 700 Hz and willbecome extremely pronounced at about 1000 Hz. Large relative changes inthe voltage can also introduce slight alterations in the color, althoughthe effect is much less pronounced than in the case of frequencychanges. The voltage effect is most noticeable at low voltages.

A variety of shapes are possible for the electroluminescent element 210of the electroluminescent lamp 200. A preferred embodiment of such ashape is depicted, for example, in FIG. 3. As can be seen, element 210includes a first end 212, a second end 214 and has a front face 216 anda back face 218. Element 210 further includes a plurality of relativelywide emitting portions, or cells 220 connected in series by a pluralityof relatively narrow emitting portions, or connectors 230. As clearlyshown in FIG. 3, the connector 230 may have a width along the transverseaxis W that is less than the width along the transverse axis W of atleast one of the cells 220. The plurality of cells 220 may have anaverage width along the transverse axis W, for example, between aboutthree quarters of an inch and about one eighth of an inch. Morepreferably, the plurality of cells 220 may have an average width alongthe transverse axis between about one half of an inch and about onequarter of an inch. Even more preferably, the cells 220 have an averagewidth along the transverse axis of about one quarter of an inch.

As further depicted in FIG. 3, the relatively narrow emitting segments,or connectors 230, may have an average width along the transverse axis Wthat is between about three quarters and about one quarter the width ofan adjacent cell 220. If desired, the connector 230 may have an averagewidth along the transverse axis W that is about half the width of anadjacent relatively wide emitting segment. For example, for the element210 depicted in FIG. 3, the connector 230 has a width along thetransverse axis of about one-eighth of an inch.

The connector 230 preferably has a length along the longitudinal axis Lthat is less than the length along the longitudinal axis of at least oneof the cells 220. If desired, the cells 220 may have an average lengthalong the longitudinal axis L between about three inches and about onehalf of an inch. More preferably, the cells 220 have an average lengthalong the longitudinal axis between about two inches and about one inch.Most preferably, the plurality of cells 220 have an average length alongthe longitudinal axis L of about one and one half inches. As depicted inFIG. 3, each cell is about one and three-eighths of an inch long byabout a quarter of an inch wide.

The connectors 230 can have an average length along the longitudinalaxis L that is between about three quarters and about one quarter thelength of an adjacent cell 220. More preferably, the connector 230 hasan average length along the longitudinal axis L that is about one thirdthe length of an adjacent relatively wide emitting segment. As depictedin FIG. 3, each connecting portion is about half an inch long by aboutone eighth of an inch wide.

As further depicted, for example, in FIG. 3, electroluminescent lamp 200further includes a plurality of electrical conductors 222, 224 operablycoupled to the electroluminescent element 210. Electrical conductors222, 224 are operably coupled to an alternating current power source,described in detail below. As depicted, conductor 222 is connected to afirst conductor 226 embedded in the element 210 and conductor 224 isconnected to a second conductor 228 that is applied to the back side 218of the element 210. Thus, when an alternating current is applied acrossthe element 210 using the conductors 222, 224, the phosphors are excitedand caused to emit light at a desired wavelength as described above.

Furthermore, as depicted in FIG. 2, the electroluminescent lamp 200further includes a power source 240 operably coupled to theelectroluminescent element 210 by way of the plurality of electricalconductors 222, 224. The power source 240 preferably includes at leastone battery 242 operably coupled to the electrical conductors by way ofan electrical inverter 244. If desired, the battery 242 may berechargeable and/or removable from the device. In accordance with theembodiment of FIG. 1(A), the battery 242 and the inverter 244 arelocated in a housing 246 that is affixed to the webbing 108 by way of aNOMEX™ loop that is oriented in the direction of the webbing. As such,the housing 246 can be removed from the loop 214 to facilitate thereplacement of the battery 242. Alternatively, if desired, the entirehousing 246 may be connected to conductors 222, 224 by a removableelectrical connector 248 to permit housing 246 to be placed in acharging station to facilitate recharging the battery.

As depicted, the electrical inverter 244 is interposed in a circuitbetween the battery(ies) 242 and the electroluminescent element 210. Avariety of different inverters may be used. In accordance with oneexample, a IM-3 Inverter may be used, commercially available from ElamEl Industries, Ltd., of Jerusalem, Israel. (Tel.: 02-5328888; website:www.elam.co.il). Such a housing 246 including an inverter 244 andbattery compartment containing batteries 242 is depicted in FIG. 4(A).The inverter 244 depicted in FIG. 4(A), as depicted, accepts two “AAA”batteries and operates between about 2.5 and 3.0 volts, generatingoutput signals in the kilohertz regime. The specifications of the IM-3power supply are presented in Table 1 below:

TABLE 1 Operating Characteristics of Exemplary Power Supply WithInverter Input Input Current Output Voltage Frequency (VDC) (mA)(V_(rms)) (kHz) 2.5 30 80 3.7 2.5 38 72 3.0 2.5 40 70 2.7 3.0 40 96 3.83.0 47 85 3.0 3.0 50 81 2.8 Tolerance +/−10% +/−5% +/−5%

As depicted in FIG. 4(A), the inverter 244 is operably coupled to aswitch 249. The switch 249 can be adapted and configured to permitselection of at least one operating mode of the lamp 200. For example,by using the switch 249, various operating modes such as constant andintermittent operation can be selected, among others. For example, lamp200 can be adapted and configured to transmit a distress signal in thesecond or a subsequent operating mode (e.g., “S.O.S.”). By way offurther example, lamp 200 can also transmit an optical signal that isunique to the wearer. The signal can be any pattern of signals (e.g.,Morse code) or can simply be a repeating pattern of a set number offlashes, such as one, two, three, four, five or more flashes separatedby a predetermined time that the lamp is off. In this manner, forexample, if “five” firefighters are in a building, each firefighter canidentify each other by the number of flashes emitted by lamp 200 in eachcycle.

In accordance with one embodiment, lamp 200 can emit light for more thanabout eight hours before the battery 242 requires charging orreplacement. In accordance with another embodiment, lamp 200 can emitlight for more than about ten hours during an operating mode thatprovides constant illumination. In accordance with still anotherembodiment of the invention, lamp 200 can emit light for more than aboutforty hours during an operating mode that provides intermittentillumination.

In further accordance with the invention, the device may include anencasement adapted and configured to house the electroluminescentelement.

For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein andas depicted in FIG. 2, an encasement 250 is provided including a baselayer 260 and a lens layer 270 of flexible material bonded together todefine a compartment 252 between the layers adapted and configured toreceive the electroluminescent element 210. The compartment 252 may bedefined by a seal 254 about its periphery. The seal 254 may include atleast one of a heat seal, a solvent weld, an ultrasonic weld, stitchingand an adhesive seal, among others. At least one of the layers (260,270) of the encasement 250 includes polymeric material. Preferably, alllayers of the encasement 250 include some amount of polymeric material,which can facilitate forming and maintaining seal 254. Preferably, thepolymeric material used to form layers (e.g., 260, 270) is fireresistant. A number of suitable polymeric materials can be used,including various vinyl materials that are fire rated, as are known inthe art.

As mentioned above, the encasement 250 preferably includes a base layer260 upon which the electroluminescent element 210 is positioned. Baselayer 260 preferably includes retroreflective material. For example, thebase layer 260 may include a plurality of microprism reflective elements262 integrally bonded to a polymeric matrix. In accordance with oneembodiment, the retroreflective material of the base layer 260 has aretroreflective value in excess of 350 cd/lux/m² (cpl) when measured inaccordance with NFPA 1971, 2000 edition. Preferably, the layer 260 has aretroreflective value of about 650 cd/lux/m² (cpl). The base layer 260may also include a layer 264 of fabric-reinforced polymeric backingmaterial. A suitable commercially available material includes, forexample, REFLEXITE® material, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No.4,801,193, U.S. Pat. No. 4,244,683, U.S. Pat. No. 4,243,618, U.S. Pat.No. 4,202,600, U.S. Pat. No. 4,555,161, U.S. Pat. No. 5,171,624, U.S.Pat. No. 5,264,063 and/or U.S. Pat. No. 5,229,882. All of these patentsare incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. Such materialis commercially available from Reflexite Americas of New Britain, Conn.06051 (Tel.: (860) 223-9297) in the form, for example, of one-inch wideyellow retroreflective material. This REFLEXITE® material passes theNFPA 1981 Heat Test & Flame Test and demonstrates self-extinguishingproperties.

By way of further example, if desired, base layer 260 of the encasement250 may additionally or alternatively include photoluminescentretroreflective material. Such materials are described, for example, inU.S. Pat. No. 5,415,911, U.S. Pat. No. 6,159,878, U.S. Pat. No.6,569,786, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,656,566. Each of these patents isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety. The photoluminescentretroreflective material is preferably charged by exposure toultraviolet light. Preferably, the retroreflective photoluminescentmaterial includes photoluminescent elements including strontiumaluminate. Other materials, such as zinc sulfide photoluminescentelements may also be used. Comparatively speaking, strontium aluminateretroreflective material tends to have a higher brightness and longerafterglow, which may be desirable in certain applications. Thesephotoluminescent crystals (e.g., strontium aluminate) may be are castinto a polymeric material such as a pliable PVC vinyl, and used in amanner similar to the REFLEXITE® material. Such material is commerciallyavailable, for example, from Lanxi Minhui Photoluminescent Co., Ltd., ofNo. 18, Yuezhong Street, Lanxi, Zhejiang Province, China (Tel.:86-579-8948789/8948900/8988198; website:http://www.mphotoluminescent.com).

The Lanxi Minhui photoluminescent retroreflective vinyl has a reflectivevalue of 650 cd/lux/m² (cpl). Its flame resistance and temperatureresistance complies with all the requirements of the NFPA 1971, 2000edition and has a melting point of approximately 500° F. High resistanceagainst deformation in high temperature enables this material tomaintain its performance. One of the reasons for this stability is thatthis product has been stably crystallized at a high temperature so thatthe photoluminescent property can be preserved with a superior antichemical resistance in high (e.g., 1,200° F.) and low (−20° F.)temperatures. The photo-luminescent and illuminant performances of thismaterial are preserved semi-permanently with no deterioration even underdirect sunlight. In addition, this material has a resistance to avariety of chemicals such as heptane, MeOH, NaOH, gasoline, kerosene,and mineral oil without any evidence of blistering or dissolving.

As indicated above, charging the photoluminescent retroreflectivematerial described above can occur in various ways. For example,exposure to sunlight or flame can cause the material to fully charge inabout five minutes. In overhead neon lighting it can take about fifteenminutes for the material to fully charge. Under exposure to a sixty wattlight bulb it can take about forty-five minutes for the material tofully charge.

An individual wearing the utility strap/tool band 100 including lamp200, for example utilizing this retroreflective photoluminescenttechnology may benefit dramatically as the luminescent light sourcecould decrease the need for battery power, as it may be decided that aquality after-glow is all that is required for conspicuity. Moreimportantly, the illumination generated by the electroluminescentelement 210 will be able to charge its own retroreflectivephotoluminescent encasement 250. Thus, in the instance that the powersource to operate the electroluminescent element 210 dies, the chargegained by the photoluminescent retroreflective encasement 250 presents aunique and effective redundancy. Moreover, the introduction of flame inwork environments where some users (e.g., firefighters) can present abenefit to the user, in that the UV light generated from flame cancharge the photoluminescent material of the encasement 250.

The particular photoluminescent retroreflective material describedherein may be light yellow-green in color, and may similarly glowyellow-green in color, for example. As indicated above, the maincomponent is preferably alkaline earth metal aluminate oxide. Itsexciting wavelength is between about 200 nm and about 450 nm. Theaverage size of the photoluminescent particles is between about 45microns and about 65 microns. Water resistance of the material is inexcess of 1000 hours, and the length of the afterglow may be in excessof 3000 minutes. The corresponding brightness and afterglow may be asfollows. About two minutes after charging, the material exhibits abrightness of about 1880 mcd/m². About ten minutes after charging, thematerial exhibits a brightness of about 475 mcd/m². About thirty minutesafter charging, the material exhibits a brightness of about 165 mcd/m².About sixty minutes after charging, the material exhibits a brightnessof about 80 mcd/m².

A clear lens layer 270 is then affixed to the base layer 260, trappingthe electroluminescent element 210 between the two layers. The lenslayer 270 is preferably formed from a vinyl material. Even morepreferably, the lens layer 270 is heat resistant, and permits passage ofvisible light and ultraviolet light therethrough without significantlyaltering its properties. This is of particular importance if ultravioletlight is needed to charge a base layer 260 including photoluminescentretroreflective material.

For purposes of further illustration only, various views of device 100illustrated in FIG. 1 are also presented in FIGS. 4(B)-4(E). FIGS. 4(B)and 4(C) depict various perspective views of device 100, FIG. 4(D)depicts a top view of device 100 and FIG. 4(E) depicts an exploded viewof device 100 detailing the battery compartment door 247, protectiveinsulative rubber boots 241 that protect the batteries 242 and inverter244, as well as flexible (preferably rubber) boot 243 that protects theelectrical connections to the lamp 210. Additional features such aslarge loop 114 a that can be used as a tool holder may be providedincluding elastic (e.g., NOMEX) portions 114 b as depicted.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, theelectroluminescent lamp 200 may be adapted and configured to emit amajority of photons in a wavelength range surrounding about 500 nm.Example I below has been carried out to show this and further illustratethe invention claimed, and is not intended to limit the inventiondisclosed herein in any way.

Example I Spectral Energy Distribution of Lamp Spectral PowerDistribution

Light may be precisely characterized by giving the power of the light ateach wavelength in the visible spectrum. The resulting spectral powerdistribution (SPD) contains all the basic physical data about the lightand serves as the starting point for quantitative analyses of color. TheSPD can be measured by a spectrophotometer.

The spectral energy distribution of an exemplary embodiment of a lamp200 made in accordance with the teachings herein was tested to determineits spectral energy distribution by an independent lighting testinglaboratory. The spectral distribution test was performed with an inputvoltage to the inverter 244 of about 2.85 V(DC), an input current ofabout 144 mA (DC) an input power of 410 mW. A complete assembly with anencasement 250 was tested, having lens layer 270 in place. To performthe test, the following equipment was used by an independent testinglaboratory: (i) a Xitron 2503 Power Analyzer, (ii) an OptronicLaboratories OL770 Spectroradiometer, (3) an ITL (Independent TestingLaboratories, Boulder, Colo.) 30″ Diameter integrating sphere and (4) aTopward 3306D DC power supply. The sample device was mounted inside ofthe integrating sphere and operated at 2.85 V(DC) until stabilizationoccurred. The relative spectral distribution and electrical data werethen recorded. In order to measure the mean performance, five data setswere recorded and averaged. Readings were taken with the sampleoperating in a 25+/−5 degree Celsius free air ambient condition.Applicant has been informed that all data taken is traceable to theNational Institute of Standards and Technology.

The data resulting from the independent testing is depicted in Table 2below and is plotted in FIG. 5.

TABLE 2 Measured Spectral Distribution of Exemplary ElectroluminescentLamp Percent of Integrated Radiant Flux for each 5 nm Wavelengthwavelength (nm) window (%) 380 0.34749 385 0.38194 390 0.39478 3950.48253 400 0.44254 405 0.30381 410 0.30608 415 0.41334 420 0.66301 4250.99008 430 1.39020 435 1.80125 440 2.19734 445 2.58515 450 2.90591 4553.21744 460 3.49706 465 3.72746 470 3.94573 475 4.18883 480 4.32491 4854.48174 490 4.57953 495 4.63655 500 4.63298 505 4.58236 510 4.44016 5154.27734 520 4.02709 525 3.70739 530 3.35136 535 2.96975 540 2.60528 5452.23733 550 1.90088 555 1.59871 560 1.32491 565 1.08739 570 0.89697 5750.72165 580 0.59057 585 0.48425 590 0.38872 595 0.31372 600 0.25337 6050.20957 610 0.16386 615 0.13685 620 0.11056 625 0.09016 630 0.07892 6350.06722 640 0.06078 645 0.04946 650 0.03827 655 0.03579 660 0.03565 6650.03339 670 0.01982 675 0.02021 680 0.02657 685 0.01747 690 0.01823 6950.01608 700 0.01361 705 0.01577 710 0.01059 715 0.01597 720 0.00812 7250.01237 730 0.01397 735 0.01156 740 0.01008 745 0.00793 750 0.01257 7550.00770 760 0.00944 765 0.00613 770 0.00893 775 0.00904 780 0.00045

As can be seen, the lamp 200 that was tested demonstrated a maximum oflight output near 500 nm. This data is actually based on a “green” ELlamp as described above that would be adapted and configured to have apeak emission at 504 nm when driven at 110V_(rms) at 400 Hz. The shiftin the spectrum is believed to be due to running the lamp at severalkHz. For the reasons discussed below, it is believed that the specificspectral distribution of lamp 200 is particularly advantageous in lowlight and/or smoky conditions.

The human visual system comprises two types of photoreceptor (cones androds), which operate under different lighting conditions. In fact, thereare different experimentally derived curves that demonstrate thesensitivity of the retina to light under different lighting conditions.A first curve describes “photopic” conditions (when light is plentiful)and a second curve describes “scotopic” conditions (when light isscarce). As one moves from photopic to scotopic conditions or viceversa, there is also a third curve, called the “mesopic” curve. Mesopicvision applies quite commonly (e.g. under road lights at night). Duringthe daytime (i.e., a “photopic” condition), nearly all photopigments inthe rods are effectively “bleached”. At this time, the human eye seescolor and acuity is high (because of foveal vision). At night,“scotopic” vision is generally determined by rods. At this time, thehuman eye generally does not see color and acuity is generally low. Ineffect, the human eye has two functionally separate retinas—one forphotopic conditions, and one for scotopic conditions.

With regard to cones, there are three types of color-sensitive cones inthe retina of the human eye, corresponding roughly to red, green, andblue sensitive detectors. Experiments known in the art have yieldedresponse curves for three different kind of cones in the retina of thehuman eye. The “green” and “red” cones are mostly packed into the foveacentralis. By population, about 64% of the cones are red-sensitive,about 32% green sensitive, and about 2% are blue sensitive.Interestingly, the “blue” cones have the highest sensitivity and aremostly found outside the fovea. The shapes of the curves are obtained bymeasurement of the absorption by the cones, but the relative heights forthe three types are set equal for lack of detailed data.

Notably, at extremely low intensities of stimuli, when only rods arestimulated, the retina shows a variable sensitivity to light accordingto its wavelength, being most sensitive at about 500 nm, the absorptionmaximum of the rod visual pigment, rhodopsin.

The light sensitivity of the normal human eye has been studiedextensively in scientific literature. The response of the eye as afunction of frequency is called the luminous efficacy of the eye. It hasbeen tabulated for both the light-adapted (“photopic”) case and thedark-adapted (“scotopic”) case. Table III below depicts the luminousefficacy of the human eye for the “scotopic” and “photopic” cases.

TABLE III Luminous Efficacy Table for Human Retina Photopic PhotopicScotopic Scotopic Wavelength Luminous Conversion Luminous Conversion □(nm) Efficacy V_(□) lm/W Efficacy V_(□) lm/W 380 0.000039 0.027 0.0005891.001 390 0.000120 0.082 0.002209 3.755 390 0.000120 0.082 0.0022093.755 400 0.000396 0.270 0.009290 15.793 410 0.001210 0.826 0.03484059.228 420 0.004000 2.732 0.096600 164.220 430 0.011600 7.923 0.199800339.660 440 0.023000 15.709 0.328100 557.770 450 0.038000 25.9540.455000 773.500 460 0.060000 40.980 0.567000 963.900 470 0.09098062.139 0.676000 1149.200 480 0.139020 94.951 0.793000 1348.100 4900.208020 142.078 0.904000 1536.800 500 0.323000 220.609 0.9820001669.400 507 0.444310 303.464 1.000000 1700.000 510 0.503000 343.5490.997000 1694.900 520 0.710000 484.930 0.935000 1589.500 530 0.862000588.746 0.811000 1378.700 540 0.954000 651.582 0.655000 1105.000 5500.994950 679.551 0.481000 817.700 555 1.000000 683.000 0.402000 683.000560 0.995000 679.585 0.328800 558.960 570 0.952000 650.216 0.207600352.920 580 0.870000 594.210 0.121200 206.040

As can be seen, peak sensitivity for the scotopic case is at about 507nm as viewed by an observer. Notably, this peak is extraordinarily closeto the peak of 500 nm for lamp 200. Stated another way, the spectraldistribution of the lamp is extremely similar to the sensitivity rangeof the human eye under scotopic conditions. As such, lamp 200 isparticularly well suited performance in a dark and/or smoky environment.While the electroluminescent lamp 200 is adapted and configured to emitgenerally blue light, a significant amount of light having generallygreen wavelengths are also preferably present. Such emission can beensured by selecting an appropriate frequency for powering theelectroluminescent lamp, as described herein.

As is known in the art, photons lose energy as they traverse a medium,such as a smoky medium. As such, having a lamp 200 or other lightingdevice with a spectral power distribution having a maximum at an energyslightly higher than that the maximum sensitivity of the human eye canbe advantageous, as the light will lose energy as it passes through themedium, permitting enhanced detection by an observer.

Example II Light Output of Lamp

It is believed that the above conclusions are bolstered by the fact thatthe intensity of the light output of lamp 200 is low, yet surprisinglyvisible. In actual use, lamp 200 has very little glare and is notblinding, even at very close distances (e.g., six inches). Yet, lamp 200is still highly visible in dark smoky environments that do not permit afirefighter to see their hand in front of their face.

The light output of an exemplary lamp 200 was tested to quantify theintensity of the output. The testing was performed by an independentlaboratory. Lamp 200 was attached to tool band 100 and centered at thefront of a helmet. The helmet, in turn, was positioned in a testing jigadapted and configured to measure the light intensity put out by thelamp 200 at various points of an imaginary “sphere” surrounding thehelmet. The element 210 of the lamp 200 was centered at the “equator” ofthe imaginary “sphere” at 0 degrees longitude on the sphere (e.g., the“prime meridian” of the sphere). Intensity measurements were then takenover one hemisphere, starting at 0 degrees longitude and proceeding to180 degrees longitude in increments of 45 degrees longitude. Along eachline of longitude, 21 light intensity measurements were taken between 0degrees (i.e., the “South pole” of the sphere) and 180 degrees (i.e.,the “North pole” of the sphere) in angular increments of five degrees. Aflux measurement integrated about the vertical axis of the sphere wasmeasured for angular increments of every ten degrees of latitude andexpressed in lumens. The measured intensity values and flux values arereported below in Table IV:

TABLE IV Spherical Candela Distribution and Flux of Lamp CandelaDistribution 0 45 90 135 180 Vertical Angle degrees degrees degreesdegrees degrees Flux (degrees) longitude longitude longitude longitudelongitude (lumens) 0 0 0 0 0 0 (south pole) 5 3 1 1 1 0 0 15 3 2 2 1 0 025 3 3 6 2 0 2 35 3 27 26 5 0 9 45 37 55 44 9 0 24 55 86 82 57 15 0 4465 110 108 68 19 0 61 75 123 121 75 21 0 72 85 129 127 78 22 0 79 90 130126 78 21 0 95 129 124 76 20 0 79 105 126 121 74 20 0 74 115 115 109 6718 0 62 125 100 95 60 15 0 49 135 81 76 49 11 0 34 145 61 54 35 8 0 19155 36 31 19 5 0 9 165 16 12 7 2 0 2 175 6 4 2 2 0 0 180 0 0 0 0 0(north pole) * Note: Divide all Candela and Lumen values by 1000

These data are also plotted in FIG. 6. FIG. 6 depicts the intensityvalues along the 0 degree meridian from the top of the “sphere” (180degrees) in 15 degree vertical increments to the bottom of the sphere (0degrees). As can be seen, the peak intensity for the lamp 200 (asmeasured) is about 0.13 Candela at the “equator”. Nonetheless, lamp 200is still highly visible in a dark, smoky environment.

The data summarizing the zonal lumens over the sphere are presentedbelow in Table V. The amount of light output in lumens is integrated foreach vertical angular section. For example, the first entry of “0-30”integrates the total number of lumens passing through the area of thesurface of an imaginary sphere defined between the south pole (0degrees) and 30 degrees of latitude above the south pole, and so forth.The right column of Table V depicts the percentage of total lumenspassing through each section.

TABLE V Integrated Zonal Lumen Summary Zonal Lumen Summary Zone LumensPercent of Total Light Output 0-30 2 0.3 0-40 11 1.7 0-60 78 12.6 0-90290 46.9 90-120 215 34.7 90-130 264 42.7 90-150 317 51.3 90-180 328 53.1 0-180 618 100.0 *Note: Divide all Candela and Lumen values by 1000.

As can be seen from the data in Table V above, 46.9% of the total lightoutput was received by the lower “hemisphere” while the remaining 53.1%of the total light output was received by the upper “hemisphere”.

Field experience has shown that lamp 200 is even visible in a “blacksmoke” condition from up to about six feet away. This distance issufficient for firefighters to see each other that are progressingthrough a burning structure in close proximity to one another.

In accordance with still a further aspect of the invention, an articleof clothing is provided having an electroluminescent lamp as describedherein.

For purposes of illustration and not limitation, as embodied herein, andas depicted in FIGS. 7-8, any suitable apparel can be fitted with one ormore electroluminescent lamps 200. For example, a jacket 510, pair oftrousers 520 and/or footwear may be fitted with one or more lamps 200 asdescribed herein and as depicted in FIG. 7. The apparel may include turnout gear and boots for firefighters, but may also include conventionalathletic apparel. As described above, lamp 200 is highly visible atnight. As such, individuals wearing lamp 200 in the darkness (e.g.,joggers and the like) can benefit greatly from this technology.

In accordance with one embodiment, it is possible to provide lamp 200with a hook and loop fastener backing (e.g., 150) so that lamp 200 isremovable from the article of clothing or other article to permitmachine washing of the article of clothing. After the article has beencleaned, lamp 200 can be reapplied and the power supply 240 can bereturned to its dedicated or other pocket.

It will also be appreciated that the shape of electroluminescent element210 can be of any suitable shape. For example, element 210 can be shapedto form designs, words, characters and athletic logos, such as the Nike®brand “swish” logo. Preferably, element 210 is driven as describedherein to have a spectral energy distribution similar to those depictedin the Examples above.

By way of further example, as depicted in FIG. 8, various helmets 500may be provided including a generally rigid protective shell 502, and anelectroluminescent conspicuity device such as lamp 200 described herein.It will be appreciated that lamp 200 may be provided in one or moresuitable lengths. While lamp 200 can be disposed around the entireperiphery of a helmet generally, in the case of a fire helmet it isadvantageous to not expose lamp 200 or its supporting circuitry(contained, e.g., in housing 246) to the particularly high heatconditions experienced by the front, flame-facing surface of a firehelmet. Thus, lamp 200 may be disposed about less than the entireperiphery of the helmet. For example, lamp 200 may be disposed aboutmore than about 40% and less than about 90% of the periphery of thehelmet. It will be appreciated that lamp 200 can be integrated intomyriad other types of helmets, such as bicycle helmets, constructionhard hats, athletic helmets such as football and hockey helmets, and thelike.

The invention also provides a conspicuity device including a bandadapted and configured to be mounted to an object and a laser beaconmounted on the band. For purposes of illustration and not limitation, asembodied herein and as depicted in FIG. 1, band 100 is provided withlaser beacon 300.

As depicted in FIG. 1, the laser beacon 300 is rotatably mounted to theband by way of a pivoting bracket 310 that is clipped or otherwiseattached to band 100. If desired, the laser beacon 300 may be mounted ina loop 114 attached to the band 100. By way of further example, asdepicted in FIG. 9(A), the laser beacon 300 may be pivotally mounted andweighted (e.g., by a pendulum 320) to direct a beam 350 verticallyupward when in use to form a signal beacon. It will be appreciated thatthe weight of the laser beacon 300 itself may be used as a pendulum. Asshown in FIG. 9(A), laser beacon 300 is situated in a mounting bracket380 having a floating spherical retainer 382 mounted in a frame 384having an interior spherical surface 386. Beacon 300 is received by anopening 388 defined in spherical retainer 382. As can be seen, bracket380 permits beacon 300 to rotate through a cone of operation defined bysolid angle A. By weighting the laser beacon 300 and/or mounting it insuch a manner, it will always point the beam 350 in an upward direction.If desired, bracket 380 may also have a pivot 389 that permits it torotate about an axis X as well. This will ensure that beacon 300 willpoint upwards, even when the user bends forward at the waist. This isadvantageous, as it can prevent a wearer of the laser beacon fromshining the laser toward another individual inadvertently, such as bybending over. The laser beacon 300 can be adapted and configured to emitlight in a variety of wavelengths. For example, the laser beacon 300 canemit, green, blue or violet light beams 350, among others.

Moreover, the beam 350 emitted from the laser beacon 300 can have avariety of shapes and sizes. For example, the laser beacon 300 can emita substantially collimated beam 350 of light or a diverging beam oflight, as desired. The beam 350 is preferably sufficiently wide topermit suitable use as a signal beacon for observers relatively nearbywhen used in indoor applications (e.g., 10-100 feet), and/or observersfar away in outdoor applications (e.g., 100-10000 feet). For example, inaccordance with one embodiment, the laser beacon 300 is preferablyadapted and configured to emit a beam 350 having a diameter in excess ofabout one centimeter at a point in the beam more than five feet from thelaser.

In further accordance with the invention, as depicted in FIG. 9(B), thelaser beacon 300 can include a laser generator 330 adapted andconfigured to generate a substantially parallel beam 350, and a firstlens 360 downstream (i.e., down beam) from the laser generator 330adapted and configured to cause the parallel beam 350 to diverge as itpasses through the first lens 360. Accordingly, lens 360 may be a“plano-convex” lens. If desired, the laser can further include a housing340 for holding the first lens 360 and laser generator 330, and a secondlens 370 disposed in the path of the beam 350 downstream from the firstlens 360. The second lens 370 is preferably adapted and configured tocause the diverging beam passing from the first lens 360 to becomesubstantially collimated, or to control its divergence, as desired,depending on the specific optical components used. If desired, thedistance along the beam path between the first lens 360 and second lens370 can be adjusted to change the diameter and/or divergence of the beam350 emitted by the laser beacon 300. For example, the distance betweenthe lenses 360, 370 may be adjusted by rotating a first portion 342 ofthe housing with respect to a second portion of the housing 344.Accordingly, for example, the diameter of the beam 350 leaving the lasercan be adjusted from a diameter of about one eighth of an inch to adiameter of about one half inch, if a substantially collimated beam isdesired. By way of further example, using appropriate lensing,adjustment of the optics can provide an optical “signal cone” of varyingdegrees, from a relatively narrow “cone” to a relatively “broad” one inany suitable angular increments, or continuous angular increments.

In operation, beam 350 can make air in the path of the beam effectively“glow.” For example, if a photon of appropriate wavelength interactswith electron of a gas molecule in the air, the electron's energy can beraised to a higher quantum state. Shortly thereafter, the electron willreturn to its ground state, emitting a photon in the process. It will beappreciated that the light so emitted by the electrons in gas moleculespresent in air is not “laser” light as it is diffuse, however, it mayhave a color characteristic similar to the laser beam shining throughit. By way of further example, beacon 300 can be outfitted withappropriate optics to supply a planar or conical moving beam. Such beamsare highly visible in low light and/or smoky conditions. If desired, thehousing 340 of the laser beacon 300 may define a compartment 346 forreceiving a battery 348 for powering the laser beacon 300. Additionallyor alternatively, a power lead 347 can be provided for providing powerto another active electrical accessory on tool band 100 and/or fordrawing power from an external power source, such as light 400 describedherein. If desired, the laser beacon 300 may also be configured tooperate in a plurality of operating modes by way of a switch 349 as withthe electroluminescent lamp 200. For example, the laser beacon 300 canbe operated in a first operating mode wherein the laser is onconstantly, and a second operating mode wherein the laser blinks. Ifdesired, the laser beacon 300 may be adapted and configured to transmita signal in the second operating mode, such as a distress signal and/oran identification signal that uniquely identifies the user of thebeacon. Such a distress or identification signal can be particularlyuseful if laser beacon 300 is being used by an individual in a forestfire. The beam 350 of laser can be seen by rescue aircraft from manymiles away, and can facilitate pinpointing the location of such anindividual if the individual's global positioning system malfunctions.

An example of a suitable laser flare is the Green Rescue Laser Flare®commercially available from Greatland Laser, LLC of Anchorage, Ak.Examples of such lasers are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No.6,688,755, U.S. Pat. No. 6,295,007, U.S. Pat. No. 6,280,057, U.S. Pat.No. 6,163,247 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,219. Each of these patents isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Such device is an FDAapproved Class III-A laser under 5 mW of power designed to signalpersons at a distance. This laser can be legally used as a distresssignal in an emergency, and can also be used for training underestablished Federal rules. The Rescue Laser Flare® is visible atdistances of up to thirty miles, and demonstrates effective conspicuityand has effectively been able to get the attention of search and rescuepilots in various case by case accounts. The ability, for example, of aforest fire fighter to effectively signal a rescue party up to 30 miles(48 km) away, depending on atmospheric conditions; by way of a helmetmounted tool band 100 can actually be critical to survival. Embodimentsof the Rescue Laser Flare® are waterproof up to 80 feet, and made frommachined aircraft aluminum and anodized for corrosion resistance. Thelaser diode lasts about 5,000 hours prior to failure. This device can besafely operated with persons at a distance greater than 13 feet (4meters). The laser can operate continuously for over five hours in aconstant mode or 10 hours in a blink mode using fully charged batteries.The specifications of this particular device are presented in Table VIbelow:

TABLE VI Range 25-30 Miles Output power 55 mW Class III-A Operatingvoltage 3 V Output model CW Average loop <550 mA Battery source 2xAAABatteries Dimensions 13 × 143 mm Laser lifetime 3000-5000 hours Batterylifetime 2.5 Hours Crystal efficiency Very good to excellent Beamdivergence <1.2 mRad

It will be appreciated that while this laser does not embody all of thefeatures described herein (for example, optical beam divergence and thelike), this or a similar laser may be modified accordingly.

This laser technology is believed to be helpful in situations wherethere is low visibility due to smoke. For example, in many instances,the only way to “see” a laser, with the use of a laser's beam, is toshine it through a cloud of smoke, chalk dust, mist, etc. in a dimly-litspace. The small particles in the cloud act as tiny diffuse surfaceswhich scatter part of the beam toward your eyes. Dust particles usuallycreate a sparkling effect as they float through the beam. Technically,what one is actually seeing are the particles in the cloud, not the beamitself. Therefore, in shorter distances such as 10 to 30 Feet, lesspowerful lasers can offer emergency service workers the ability to helpto target themselves so that others can locate them in a smoke conditionmore easily. This will enable those entering into smoke filledenvironments to have better orientation of each other helping to preventanyone from getting lost.

This Green Rescue Laser Flare® can be attached to band 100 in a varietyof ways. For example, it may simply be mounted in a loop 114 asdescribed herein. By way of further example, it may be enclosed in acloth encasement or pouch. By way of further example, laser beacon 300may be mounted on an adjustable platform or fixture 310, such as apivoting bracket and/or a plastic encasement that can adjust to variouspositions as depicted in FIG. 10(A). As also mentioned above, pendulumpositioning may be provided in a number of ways with a counterweight.The counterweight can even be the laser itself, if desired. Unlike,pyrotechnic flares, laser beacon 300 is non-flammable and non-hazardous.

FIGS. 10(B)-10(F) depict a top view and four side views of the laserbeacon in a positioning assembly 1300. As depicted, laser beacon 300 isdisposed in a sleeve-type retainer 1310 that is connected to an arm 1350which is connected to a hub 1352 that is adapted and configured torotate about a pivot 1354 (FIG. 10(H)). Pivot 1354 in turn is connectedto a first side 1322 of a mounting plate 1320 having a second side 1324.Second side 1324 of plate 1320 includes a plurality of teeth orretainers 1330 that each cooperate with plate 1320 to define a space1332 for receiving a strap or a belt. Beacon may be rotated about pivotby loosening or rotating adjustment wheel 1340 about axis X. While laserbeacon may be powered by an on-board battery as described herein, it mayalso be powered by an external battery. As such, a plug in power cable1360 is also provided having a first connector 1362 for connecting tothe laser beacon 300 and a second connector 1364 for connecting to apower source.

FIGS. 10(I)-10(0) depict still another embodiment of a laser beacon 300in a positioning assembly 2300. Assembly 2300 permits laser beacon 300to rotate freely through a 360 degree rotation about axis X. As will beappreciated, this embodiment most advantageously uses a battery poweredlaser beacon. As depicted most clearly in FIG. 10(O), laser beacon isdisposed in a retainer ring 2318, such as in a snap fit configuration.If desired, an additional retainer ring 2319 may be provided to helpmaintain beacon 300 in position within ring 2318. Retainer ring 2318 isfurther provided with two knobs or protrusions 2318 a that are receivedwithin assembly 2310 within parallel guide tracks 2315. Assembly 2310includes a first guard wall 2312 and a second guard wall 2314 connectedby a plurality of struts 2316. If desired, retainers 2317 may beprovided for holding protrusions 2318 in place during use. Assembly 2310is received on mounting plate 2320. Mounting plate 2320 is similar toplate 1320 and includes a plurality of teeth or retainers 1330 forreceiving a belt or a strap.

If desired, as embodied herein, an electroluminescent lamp (such as lamp200) may be mounted on the band 100 to be used in combination with laser300. Using laser 300 in combination with lamp 200 can be particularlyadvantageous. While each device can be used to support the same function(e.g., locating a nearby individual), the laser 300 can also be used tolocate an individual that is far away. An embodiment of such anarrangement is depicted in FIG. 10(P). As is further depicted in FIG. 1,tool band 100 can be further outfitted with a work light 400. Work light400 can include, for example, a flashlight that is removable from toolband 100, or may include a lamp. If desired, work light 400 can also actas a power source for other active lighting devices on tool band 100.

As indicated above, work light 400 is preferably either a flashlight,such as a compact torch flashlight or a compact lamp. A compact torchflashlight ranging from about 4 to 5 inches in length can easily mounton tool band 100 permitting the projection of work illumination in frontof the user of band 100. Attachment devices may be used for selectivedirectional targeting that preferably permits illumination of the spacein front of the user. Attachment can be accomplished in a variety ofways. It will be appreciated that the work light 400 will preferably bepositioned on the right or left side of the user on band 100 therebydirecting its beam forward. In accordance with one example, a loop 114can be provided defining a passage therethrough along the direction ofband 100 that is adapted and configured to hold light 400 securely inplace. A molded clip and bracket may also be used that allowsremovability of light 400 and/or aiming of the light. Moreover, a worklight 400 can be fully integrated into band 400 having replaceablebatteries and/or a removable battery pack.

An example of one suitable torch flashlight that may be used, is acompact torch flashlight called the Helm-A-Lite™ Compact Torchcommercially available from the Helm-A-Lite company in Pointe-Claire,QC, Canada (Tel. (514) 426-9266; website: www.helmalite.com). This torchflashlight is about four inches in length and projects a beam of lightfrom a one watt lamp including light emitting diodes (“LED's”). Theflashlight housing is made from heat and flame resistant polycarbonate,is water proof, impact resistant and safe to use. This particular torchflashlight is powered with 3 AAA batteries and has a burn time of about15 hours.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, as depicted inFIGS. 11(A)-11(G), a compact lamp 400 can be mounted to the “front” sideof the utility strap/tool band 100 oriented such that it is on the frontof the helmet, opposite the rear of a user's helmet where an integratedconspicuity lamp (e.g., 200) may be mounted. Such a configurationpermits lamp 400 to project work illumination in front of the user.

An example of a suitable lamp 400 is a compact multiple LED lamp systemcalled the Foxfury™ Signature model, commercially available from FoxFuryAction Lighting (NOAH Systems LLC) of Vista, Calif. (Tel.: (760) 9454231; website: www.foxfury.com). Certain aspects of this lamp aredescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,966,668, which is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety. The commercial embodiment of this lamp 400 isdepicted in FIGS. 11(A)-11(G). The lamp is 6 inches in length and castsa broad light designed to satisfy peripheral work light illumination.This lamp operates with a sequence of 24 LED's and is made with a heatand flame resistant polycarbonate, is water proof, impact resistant andintrinsically safe. Lamp illumination is powered with 4 “AA” batteriesand has a burn time of 18 hours.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, as depicted in FIGS.12(A)-12(F), the work light 400 may be a torch flashlight include adirect current power source 410 such as a battery or a capacitor bank, alamp 420 operably coupled to the power source 410, and an electricalinverter 430 operably coupled to the battery 410 for converting directcurrent to alternating current. Inverter 430 can be independent of thework light (FIG. 12(F)), integrated with the work light when itilluminates (FIG. 12(B)), or can be configured into an inverter “head”431 that plugs into battery 410. Preferably, battery 410 is rechargeableand may be provided with a charging stand (not depicted). A kit may beprovided in accordance with the teachings herein, including allcomponents and accessories for band 100.

Work light 400 may further include an electrical port 440 operablycoupled to the electrical inverter 430 for supplying alternating currentto another device, such as electroluminescent lamp 200. Light 400 caninclude a variety of direct current power supplies 410, such asconventional and/or rechargeable batteries, and the like. If desired,work light 400 can also include an electrical generator 450 that cangenerate electricity and store it in battery and/or a capacitor duringperiods of extended use.

The generator 450 can be used to generate power, for example, by shakingthe work light 400 or a removable portion of work light 400 containingthe generator and battery(ies) or capacitor, by turning a generatingcrank, and the like. Suitable examples of generating schemes aredescribed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,994,450, U.S. Pat. No.6,914,340, U.S. Pat. No. 6,563,269 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,322,233. Each ofthese patents is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Ifdesired, the light 400 can also include a DC power port 442 for poweringa DC accessory, such as laser beacon 300 described herein. If desired,inverter 430 can be integrally formed with lamp 200 or band 100 and canbe plugged into light 400 to obtain DC power to power the lamp 200 byway of inverter 430.

The utility strap/tool band 100 for helmets provided herein can beconsidered to be a system wherein an electroluminescent illuminatedstrip (e.g., 200) compliments many applications which may involve theuse of other technologies. Although tool band 100 serves primarily as aconspicuity device, an objective of tool band 100 outside of providingconspicuity is to assist users in carrying or incorporating otherfunctional tools into band 100 to facilitate achievement of a myriad oftask oriented goals. As depicted, the electroluminescent lamp 200integrated into tool band is preferably a permanent fixture (but couldbe removable, if desired). This uniqueness of the design of band 100embodied herein offers a variety of components that can be easilyplugged-in or removed from band 100, thereby providing a modular systemhaving interchangeable components. As will be appreciated, the activeelectrical components contained by band 100 may each have their ownpower source, or may share a power source, as appropriate. It will alsobe appreciated that while a helmet band is a preferred embodiment, toolband 100 and all of its features described herein can be embodied as abelt for wearing around a user's midsection, arms, legs, neck or head,as appropriate. By way of further example, tool band may also beconfigured for use as a sash or a utility vest, among otherconfigurations.

For example, an utility strap/tool band 100 for a helmets with anintegrated electroluminescent lamp 200 may be modularly combined with(i) work lamp illumination, (ii) work torch illumination, (iii) a laserbeacon (e.g., 300), (iv) an electrical inverter and (v) a conventionalor rechargeable battery pack, among other features, such as a globalpositioning device, a two-way radio, a portable telephone, an electricalgenerator, and the like. Illustrations of some of these concepts arepresent in FIGS. 12(A)-12(F).

Alternatively, many of the interchangeable components described abovecan also be designed to be an integrated, permanent fixture of band 100.Preferably, in such a configuration, most or all of the components canoperate from a single power source such as a battery pack. Advancedflashlight designs can improve functionality as a specially designedtorch or lamp can incorporate an inverter and/or a generator within itshousing as described herein, enabling a flashlight to have a AC and DCoutput. It is also within the scope of the invention to provide for anintegrated flashlight, inverter, and laser.

Additional embodiments of devices made in accordance with the inventionare further disclosed in FIGS. 13-17.

FIGS. 13(A)-13(M) depict an additional embodiment of a housing includinga power source provided in accordance with the invention. As depicted, apower supply housing 3300 is provided having a generally rectangularbody. A battery compartment 3310 is defined in housing that is adaptedand configured to receive a battery pack 3500. Battery pack 3500 mayhave any suitable configuration. In accordance with a preferredembodiment, battery pack 3500 includes 5 “AAA” type rechargeable (e.g.,NiMH, NiCD or Li-Ion) batteries. Commercially available battery packsare available having storage capacities, for example, of about 800,1500, 1600, 1800 and 2000 mAH. DC power. Battery 3500 provideselectrical power to power supply housing 3300 when engaged withelectrical contacts 3314. Battery 3500 is preferably spring biased bysprings 3312 to eject battery 3500 from compartment 3310 when coverhatch 3316 is in an open condition. As depicted, cover hatch 3316 ishingedly connected to power supply housing 3300 by a pin hinge 3318 andheld in place by a catch 3320 that engages a recess 3322 in housing3300. To close hatch 3316, battery 3500 is pushed down into compartment3310 while being opposed by spring force until catch 3320 engages recess3322.

As depicted, a plurality of power ports 3800 are provided for poweringaccessories. Ports may be direct current (“DC”) ports in directelectrical communication with battery 3500 and/or alternating current(“AC”) power ports in electrical communication with battery 3500 by wayof inverter 3344. Housing 3300 also includes a switch 3350 that maypower the AC port and/or the DC port. As will be appreciated, additionalAC or DC ports may be provided. Switch 3350 is preferably a three wayswitch that can operate inverter in an on/off, constant on and blinkmode, particularly for powering device 200. However, other accessoriessuch as work lights or laser beacons can be operated in blink mode forconspicuity and/or to conserve electrical power.

The structure of power supply housing 3300 includes a back panel 3340that fits into a front housing portion 3360. As depicted, back panel3340 fits into the back of front housing portion 3360. A tab 3342provided along one edge of back panel 3340 mates with a slot 3362defined in front housing portion 3360. Two screws 3900 are used to holdback panel in position. As depicted in FIG. 13(L), back panel actuallyhelps define battery compartment 1310 and includes a plurality of ribs1317 to guide battery 3500 into position. As most clearly depicted inFIG. 13(I), a plurality of teeth or retainers 3330 are provided forreceiving a belt or a strap therein.

As depicted in FIGS. 14(A)-14(B), power supply housing 3300 may beattached to a belt 4000 and used to power a conspicuity device 200 asdescribed herein by way of a power line 3301 that can plug into powersupply housing 3300. As depicted in FIG. 14(C), power supply housing3000 may be disposed in a pocket 4120 of a bag or other container 4100for powering a conspicuity device (e.g., 200). Conspicuity device 200,as depicted, is attached to a handle 4110 of bag 4100. Conspicuitydevice 200 may be removably attachable, such as by straps, buttons,and/or hook and loop fasteners as described herein. Moreover, a kit maybe provided including power supply housing 3300 and conspicuity device200 with attachment hardware (e.g., hook and loop fasteners) that canfacilitate retrofitting any garment or other object (e.g., toolbox,backpack, bags, target exit devices, etc.) with a conspicuity device.Such garments may include fire apparel as embodied herein and depictedin FIG. 7, belts (e.g., waist, shoulder sashes). Such a kit isfacilitated by the modular nature of devices made in accordance with thepresent invention.

Moreover, such a kit may be used as a stationary device that is mountedin a window, such as in a home in a child's room. The conspicuity devicemay be activated, for example, by a smoke detector or manually. Forexample, housing 3300 may include an acoustically activated switch 3500that turns on when a nearby smoke detector sounds an alarm. Thus, as aresult of the smoke alarm being activated, a device (e.g., 200, 300) mayactivate to alert an emergency worker arriving on the scene of thelocation of possibly sleeping and/or unconscious individuals.

Device 200 may also be integrated into a fire alarm and activated whenthe alarm activates to provide a visual signal to help occupants of abuilding (or vehicle) physically orient themselves to facilitateescaping from a dangerous situation. Device 300 may be similarlyintegrated, and point its beam 350 in the direction of an escape route.

FIGS. 15(A)-15(I) depict an embodiment of an ergonomically shaped powersupply housing 4300 made in accordance with the invention. Housing 4300is structurally and functionally similar to power supply housing 3300,with certain notable differences. Dimensions of housing 4300 aredepicted in inches. Housing includes a front housing portion 4360 thatis adapted to receive a rear housing portion 4340 held in place, forexample, by screws 4900. In the instant embodiment, front housingportion 4360 defines a channel 4365 that is adapted and configured toreceive a belt or strap held in place by retainers 4330. A switch 4350similar to switch 3350 is also provided on an upper surface 4370 ofpower supply housing 4300. A battery compartment 4310 is defined inhousing 4300, that may be covered by a hatch 4316 attached to housing4300 by hinge 4318. A catch 4320 provided on hatch 4316 can mate(preferably by snap fit) with recess 4322 defined on housing 4300. Aplurality of AC and/or DC ports 4800 are provided.

Most notably, the shape of housing 4300 differs from that of housing3300. For example, housing 4300 has a contoured V-shape, clearlydepicted in the top view of FIG. 15(A). As can be seen, housing 4300 hasa first portion 4302 that is angled with respect to a second portion4303 of housing 4300. As depicted, the housing portions are angled at anangle of about 114 degrees. Such an angulation is advantageous as ithelps housing 4300 fit the curvature of may helmets used byprofessionals in the emergency service and other industries, such as NewYork firefighter helmets (leather and synthetic plastic), various othermodern type firefighter helmets, various forestry type firefighterhelmets and various types of rescue helmets and hard hats.

Housing 4300 also includes an inclined upper surface inclined along thedirection of the front portion 4360 (about 25°) of the housing and aside portion 4380 of the housing (angle “α”) as illustrated in FIGS.15(D) and 17(C). This contouring makes it easier for a user to reachswitch 4350 when mounted on a helmet, as particularly illustrated inFIG. 17(C).

Housings 3300, 4300, 240 are all preferably waterproof and includesuitable gasketing about peripheries (e.g., gasket 3390 in FIG. 13(H))and in power ports (e.g., 3800, 4800) and proximate switch (e.g., 249,3350, 4350) to substantially prevent the entry of moisture.

Moreover, power supply housings depicted herein (e.g., 3300, 4300) maybe used to power other accessory devices (e.g., two-way radios, portabletelephones, infrared cameras and the like) as desired.

As depicted in FIGS. 16(A)-16(G), a further embodiment of a work light2500 provided in accordance with the invention. Work light 2500 includesa lamp body 2510 pivotally attached to a hinge base 2524 of a base plate2520. Lamp body 2510 includes a lamp of any desired suitable poweroutput, such as a one (1) Watt Luxeon LED light, among others. Baseplate 2520 includes a plurality of retainers 2522, wherein opposingretainers can retain a strap or belt, as desired, and as illustrated inuse in FIG. 17(A). Work light further includes an on/off switch 2550 anda power cable 2530 having a first end 2532 connected to lamp body 2510and a second end 2534 having a connector that may be inserted in a powerport of a power source (e.g., 3300, 4300).

FIGS. 17(A)-17(D) depict various views of a helmet 5500 includingconspicuity devices (200, 300) provided in accordance with theinvention. A first view of a front of helmet 5500 is provided in FIG.17(A) wherein work light 2500 is located at the front of the helmet andlaser beacon assembly 1300 is disposed proximate a side of helmet 5500.FIG. 17(B) depicts a rear view the helmet as configured in FIG. 17(A),illustrating conspicuity device 200 and housing 4300 disposed proximatethe rear of the helmet. Disposing the power supply housing proximate therear of the helmet 5500 provides better weight distribution for thehelmet (and balance on the wearer's head) and places the load close tothe helmet's center line. Moreover, such placement keeps the electronicsaway from heat radiation in a firefighting situation.

As can be seen, ergonomically, power button 4350 of housing 4300 isangulated so that it is easy for a user to reach when wearing the helmet5500. FIG. 17(C) illustrates a side view of a helmet 5500 with worklight 2500 positioned on the side of the helmet with its lens pointedtoward the front of the helmet and the power supply housing disposedproximate the back of the helmet. FIG. 17(D) illustrates a side view ofthe helmet as configured in FIG. 17(A) illustrating the laser beacon andhousing.

As will be appreciated, the modular system provided herein may furtherinclude a charger for battery 3500, 4500. Suitable chargers are known inthe art. The modular design provided herein permits ready replacement ofa portion of the system that is not functioning, thus eliminating theneed to replace or repair the entire system.

The invention also provides a method of providing improved conspicuityin an environment rendered opaque by smoke and/or darkness. For purposesof illustration and not limitation, the method includes providing anilluminative device (such as lamp 200) to an object to be givenconspicuity, and causing the illuminative device to emit light having awavelength equal to or shorter than about 550 nm. More preferably, theilluminative device emits light having a wavelength equal to or shorterthan about 510 nm. If desired, the light emitted by the illuminativedevice may have a wavelength equal to or shorter than about 475 nm. Byway of further example, the light emitted by the illuminative device mayhave a wavelength equal to or shorter than about 445 nm or 400 nm. Asthe wavelength of the emitted light progresses below 500 nm, the devicesmay be more useful in applications where it is desired to view an objectfrom a long distance away. If desired, the illuminative device mayinclude a laser beacon (e.g., 300), a lamp having an electroluminescentelement (e.g., 200) and/or an LED lamp (e.g., 400), among others.

In accordance with still another aspect, the invention provides alighting device including a light source having a spectral energydistribution that is specifically adapted and configured tosubstantially overlap the spectral sensitivity of the human eye in oneor more viewing conditions. For purposes of illustration and notlimitation, any suitable light source can be used, including passive oractive. Suitable active light sources may include a laser beacon (e.g.,300), a lamp having an electroluminescent element (e.g., 200) and/or anLED lamp (e.g., 400), among others.

The sensitivity of the human eye in scotopic conditions was discussedabove in Example I. However, in photopic conditions, the human eye issensitive to different, longer wavelengths. As indicated in Table IIIabove, in photopic conditions, the human eye is most sensitive to awavelength of about 555 nm. Accordingly, lighting devices are providedherein that are tailored to the sensitivity of the human eye in photopicconditions and mesopic conditions as well as scotopic conditions.

The spectral energy distribution of the light source may be specificallyadapted and configured to substantially overlap the spectral sensitivityof the human eye in photopic, mesopic and/or scotopic conditions. Theoverlap of the spectral distribution of the light source and thesensitivity of the human eye can be less than or equal to about 100%,about 95%, about 90%, about 85%, and so on in any suitable increments(e.g., of 1% or 5% for example) until the overlap ceases to have aperformance advantage by virtue of the overlap. For example, there mayonly be a 20% overlap, but the 20% overlap may lie in a region ofparticular sensitivity of the human eye. For example, in darknessconditions, the human eye is most sensitive to light having a wavelengthof about 507 nm. As such, a light having even a small portion of itsspectral distribution (e.g., about 10%) at or near 507 nm maydemonstrate significant visibility.

As mentioned above, the lighting device may include an active lightingdevice and/or a passive lighting device. By way of further example, ifthe lighting device is active, it may be selected from the groupincluding (i) a running light for a car, (ii) an illuminated sign, (iii)an illuminated warning signal (iii) an interior building light, (iv) astreet light, (v) a reading light, (vi) a flashlight (vii) a lightemitting diode and (viii) electroluminescent material, among others. Ifthe lighting device is passive, the device may include photoluminescentmaterial and/or retroreflective material. If it is passive, the lightingdevice may selected from the group including (i) a surface of a motorvehicle, (ii) a road sign, (iii) a fence (iii) an interior surface of abuilding and (iv) paint, among others.

It will be appreciated that device 200 may be applied to a variety ofobjects, such as bicycles, baby strollers (e.g., FIG. 35), carts, slowmoving vehicles and the like. Such devices, for example, may beremovably attached to objects in various applications (e.g., by hook andloop fasteners or other fasteners, magnets and the like) or may bepermanently integrated, as appropriate, in their respective application.

For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, as embodied herein,FIGS. 18-35 depict exemplary devices 200 as described herein in variousapplications. FIGS. 18-19 depict device 200 for use as a permanenthelipad and a guide for use in a landing strip, such as on an aircraftcarrier. FIG. 20 depicts use of device 200 in association with atransportable helipad that can be held in place temporarily by variousmeans (e.g., stakes). FIG. 21 depicts use of device 200 as a backupguide to maintain alignment between a vehicle and a structure such as afirehouse or other structure, such as a garage or loading dock. FIG. 22depicts use of device 200 in association with a pedestrian crosswalk.FIG. 23 depicts use of device 200 in association with a railroadcrossing. FIG. 24 depicts use of device 200 in association with varioustraffic control devices, such as traffic lanes, pylons and variousbarriers to enhance their conspicuity. FIG. 25 depicts use of device 200in association with a school bus or other vehicle where enhancedconspicuity is particularly advantageous. FIG. 26 depicts use of device200 in association with a helicopter. FIG. 27 depicts use of device 200in association with various marine applications (e.g., personalwatercraft, boats, surf boards and life boats) to enhance conspicuity,which is especially useful in darkness conditions in case rescue isneeded. FIG. 28 depicts use of device 200 in association with lifejackets, such as those for firefighters and dock workers. FIG. 29depicts use of device 200 in association with a self contained breathingapparatus (SCBA).

For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, FIG. 45 presentsexemplary embodiments of air tanks 4510 (such as for SCBA, SCUBAunderwater diving, and the like including electroluminescent and/or LEDindicia 4500 thereon as embodied herein in varying patterns. Indicia canbe shapes, arrows and/or names in order to identify the wearer of thetank, and/or to determine the tank's (and hence the wearer's)orientation. The indicia 4500 can be encased in materials as describedherein and attached to the tank. In some embodiments, indicia 4500 isattached via a clear overwrap, such as an epoxy overwrap. In someembodiments, the tank can be a full wrapped composite cylinder that ismanufactured with a lightweight aluminum liner and wrapped with layersof fiber (e.g., of aramid fibers such as KEVLAR® material, carbon fiber,fiberglass and combinations thereof) in an epoxy resin matrix. Where aEL element is used, the element can be wrapped around part or all of thecircumference of the fiber wrapped cylinder, and then encased, forexample, in a translucent or transparent epoxy wrap layer 4520. LEDlighting elements can be similarly incorporated under the epoxy layer orother transparent or translucent layer. The pattern of LED's and/or theEL element can have a pattern with relatively bright and dim segments asdescribed herein, and/or may be provided, for example, by arranging theilluminated portion in a decorative design on the tank. The design caninclude identifying information (e.g., name, number or other symbols,such as silhouette of an article or animal such as a fish, scorpion orthe like, and the like).

FIG. 30 depicts use of device 200 in association with an industrialharness, such as those worn by construction workers. FIG. 31 depicts useof device 200 in association with a parachute. FIG. 32 depicts use ofdevice 200 in association with a police equestrian application. FIG. 33depicts use of device 200 in association with a glove, such as that usedby a traffic officer or crossing guard. FIG. 34 depicts use of device200 in association with a rifle band to enhance conspicuity of huntersto other hunters. FIG. 35 depicts use of device 200 in association witha baby stroller. As will be appreciated, while device 200 is depicted onthe front and back of the stroller, it may additionally or alternativelybe located on the sides and/or top. The examples of use of device 200presented herein are intended to merely be illustrative, and notexhaustive.

In accordance with a further embodiment, if desired, the elongatelighting device can include a plurality of spaced LED elements disposedinside of a polymeric tubular member.

For purposes of illustration, and not limitation, FIGS. 36-44 depictadditional embodiments having an elongate lighting device based on LEDtechnology. FIGS. 36(A) and 36(C) illustrate a front view of a firstembodiment, while FIG. 36(B) illustrates the back view. As with theembodiment of FIG. 1, the device is elongate and flexible and includesan elastic webbing portion 6000 and non-elastic webbing portion 6010. Aloop portion 6020 of a hook and loop fastener is provided, in additionto a hook portion 6030. It will be appreciated that the hook and looppile locations can be reversed. Suitable hook and loop fasteners arepreferably flame retardant polyurethane obtained from YKK USA Inc.,Rutherford, N.J. 07070-2580, Tel: (201) 935-4200, FASCO FA FR-AR 1″ Hook& Loop (9 MIL/0.23 mM Hook Size).

The length of the illustrated device can be extended by looping the endof the device having patch 6030 through a buckle of an extension strap(not shown), and back onto the back side of the device onto fastener6020. The buckle is preferably attached to a rubber strap that can beaffixed at a second end to a buckle at the end of the device oppositethe end having patch 6030. The rubber strap connecting the two bucklescan then be adjusted to a desired length. The rubber strap is preferablymade with Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (“EPDM”) obtainable fromAlliance Rubber Co., Hot Springs, Ark. 71901, (501) 262-2700. Thebuckles are preferably high heat nylon buckles as described herein. Anywebbing, elastic, or other reflective or retroreflective materials canbe used in this embodiment as described elsewhere in this applicationwith respect to other conspicuity devices. Military specificationCordura® binding can be used, such as MILPRF5038 Type-III Black 1″ 62331from Texcel, Inc., Rhode Island 02864 Tel: (401) 727-2113.

As further illustrated in FIG. 36, a battery pack housing 6040 isprovided that, as illustrated, is attached to webbing 6010 via assemblyscrews 6050. Battery pack housing 6040 includes a push button actuator6060 and a flip door hinge 6070, as well as a set screw 6080 that holdsthe flip door in a desired position. An LED strip 6090 including astring of connected LEDs is located within a luminary, or tubularencasement or member 6100. A layer of preferably fluorescent yellow,green or blue reflective photoluminescent material 6120 is alsoprovided. The tubular member 6100 is preferably translucent ortransparent, and conducts light along its length and through its sidewall so as to define areas of brightness proximate the LEDs, and dimmerareas between the LEDs, as would be visible to an observer of the bandin operation, thus resulting in an elongate lighting device having aplurality of spaced relatively bright emitting segments separated byrelatively dimmer emitting segments. If desired, the polymeric tubularmember 6100 can be tinted so that a preselected spectral distribution oflight generated by the LEDs passes through the tubular member. Thepreselected spectral distribution preferably has a peak between 480 nmand 520 nm.

As illustrated in FIGS. 37(A)-37(E), the encasement for the LED strip,the tubular member 6100, is based on an extrusion 6200 that includes atubular core portion 6230 with longitudinal wings 6220 along its length.This extrusion is designed to both house and protect a single sequenceof LED's from heat, water, and impact. This extrusion can be molded witha hard or soft material, such as flexible PVC, hard PVC, hightemperature polycarbonate plastic and high temperature silicone andsilicone rubber. In one embodiment, a silicone material is used to makethe extrusion from Harman Corporation, Part #S001 Silicone. If desired,a PVC material such as Part #A002 Plastisol Clear (PVC—PolyvinylChloride) from Harman Corporation.

In one embodiment, extrusion 6200 can be molded with embeddedphoto-luminescent properties so that the whole extrusion when exposed toUV light will charge and then dissipate an after glow. In particular,LumiNova® pigment is a phosphorescent pigment that includes strontiumoxide aluminate. This pigment can be added to silicone resin and PVCresin, among others, and included in the extrusion resulting in theparticulate being captured in the resin. Such pigments are described,for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,424,006, which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety and can be obtained from NEMOTO & CO.,LTD., 1-15-1, Kamiogi, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 157-0043, Japan Tel:03-3392-1781.

The characteristics of this extrusion are preferably that it betransparent or translucent so that illumination from an LED light source6240 with emitting portions 6242 can be visible. Besides enablingillumination, the purpose of this Single LED Extrusion is to defuselight in a manner that allows a glowing effect throughout the material.Similar to a fiber optic cable, the optical properties of this extrusionpermits it to act as a luminary. This effect allows the elongatelighting device to define a plurality of points that are relativelybright, emitting segments separated by relatively dimmer emittingsegments. Center tube portion 6230 is preferably centered between theelongate wings 6220, but one wing may be wider than the other. Providingwing segments 6220 permits the extrusion 6200 to have cloth materialattached (stitched) to it via stitches 6250 or to be used as a printarea for information or images that need to be seen such as arrows orother indicia such as warnings. Preferably, T35 Black KEVLAR® thread isused, obtainable from Atlantic Thread & Supply Company, Inc., Baltimore,Md. 21221-3140, Tel: (410) 687-9424. If desired, instead of LEDs,electroluminescent wire can be used, which can be obtained commerciallyfrom Elam El Industries, Ltd., of Jerusalem, Israel. It will beappreciated that use of EL wire will be accompanied by use of aninverter based power supply as described herein.

FIGS. 38(A)-(B) again illustrate the embodiment of FIG. 37, while FIGS.38(C)-(D) illustrates an alternative embodiment of an extrusion 7200that includes two parallel tubular LED enclosures 7230 separated by aplanar connecting portion 7220. This embodiment is the same as theprevious embodiment, but for the fact that the lighting strips arelocated along the edges of the device rather than down its center. Itwill be appreciated that any desired extrusion can be used, includingones with three or more parallel tubular portions connected by planarconnecting portions. FIG. 39(A) illustrates the embodiment of FIG. 37with arrow shaped indicia 6280 formed on the plastic extrusion, such asby screen printing, while FIG. 39(B) illustrates indicia such as arrows7280 or textual indicia 7290 deposited on the extrusion 7200 of FIGS.38(C)-(D).

FIG. 40 illustrates a preferred battery encasement for the device ofFIGS. 36-39 that is waterproof to permit underwater operation of thedevice. Rather than including the hinged encasement of FIG. 36, theencasement of FIG. 40 includes a base portion 8180 attached to webbingvia a bracket 8160 and screws 8150. Base portion 8180 includes a flatdisc shaped portion with an upper cylindrical boss having outwardlyfacing screw threads. The base portion 8180 further includes batteries8170 and a printed circuit board that is actuated by pressing down on arubber cap 8110. Rubber cap 8110 is held in place by an externallythreaded sleeve that compresses rubber cap against a pressure ring 8120.Preferably, a high heat resistance material is used, such as UL K014Plastisol Black from Harman Corporation, 360 South Street, Rochester,Mich. 48307; Tel: (248) 651-4477. Injection molded hard plasticcomponents of the battery encasement are preferably made from Makrolon®FR7067 polycarbonate plastic obtainable from Bayer Material Science LLC,100 Bayer Road, Pittsburgh, Pa. 15205-9741, Tel: (412) 777-2000.Alternatively, VALOX® VX3608C thermoplastic polyester resin can be used,obtainable from Sabic Innovative Plastics (Formerly GE Plastics),Pittsfield, Mass. 01201, Tel: (413) 448-7110.

FIG. 41 illustrates still further embodiments of LED based devices.FIGS. 41(A)-(B) illustrates an embodiment similar to FIGS. 37 and 39(A),wherein indicia is printed directly on the wing portions 6220.Alternatively, FIGS. 41(C)-(E) illustrate an embodiment wherein theencasement 6800 includes hollow wing portions 6820 defining elongatecavities 6822 therein that are in communication with a central lumen. Ifdesired, an LED strip 6840 can be disposed within a further tubularmember 6842 inside of encasement 6800. The hollow elongate cavities 6822can receive printed media therein rather than printing media on theplastic surface of the encasement 6800. Similarly, while FIGS. 41(F)-(G)illustrate an embodiment similar to that of FIG. 39(B), the embodimentof FIGS. 41(H)-(J) provides a dual lumen embodiment of an extrusion 7800having a hollow center connecting portion 7820 that defines an elongatecavity 7822 that can receive printed indicia therein that connectsparallel tubular cavities 7832 defined by tubular portions 7830. Byproviding cavities (e.g., 7822) a user is offered the option ofmodifying information and or images, adding or removing such indicia asneeded. LED elements 7840 are provided in interconnected form along thelength of the extrusion, inside of individual tubes as illustratedreceived within the extrusion 6800, if desired. Indicia 7890 cansimilarly be provided. The LED strips preferably use 3 millimeterstandard LEDs (1.5-3.0V) spaced about every two inches in a plurality orstrip of LED's. It will be appreciated however that LED size and spacingbetween LED's can vary.

FIG. 42 illustrates an exemplary manner for attaching webbing material(such as KEVLAR® material and/or hook and loop fastener strip materialto the extrusion (e.g., 6200) by folding one or two strips around theenclosure, and then adhering them and/or stitching them in place. FIG.42(A) illustrates the extrusion, while FIG. 42(B) illustrates fabricpartially folded over the extrusion. FIG. 42(C) illustrates a techniquewherein one discrete strip is folded over each side and stitched inplace, while FIG. 42(D) illustrates a wider (e.g., 2.125 inch wide)strip disposed along the back of the extrusion and then folded over ontothe front of the extrusion on each side. In either case, hook and loopfastener strips can be attached beneath the webbing, or in lieu of thewebbing if desired.

FIGS. 43-44 illustrate aspects of a safety system utilizing a number ofconspicuity units as described above (10001-10004) that are in selectivecommunication with a remote 10000 by way of RFID technology. Such asystem can be very useful for a supervising emergency worker (e.g.,firefighter) by helping keep track of people in their team. Inparticular, by way of use of the remote 10000, the supervisor canactivate or deactivate the illuminating strips 10001-10004 on differentemergency workers. Each worker can be selected to have a differing blinkpattern such that the LEDs blink relatively faster or slower, or stay onconstantly. The supervisor can then monitor the location of each workervisually. Preferably, one hand held base unit can control up to four ofthe LED locator devices and the remote 1000 can preferably detect andcommunicate with the remote units up to distances as far as 500 meters.Preferably, the remote 10000 has at least three independent audiblealarm modes indicating proximal distances to each LED Locator. The threeaudible alarms correspond to given ranges, such as “close” (1 to 10 ft),“mid-range” (10 to 50 ft), or long-range (50 ft to 1600 ft). The remote10000 can be programmed so that once the remote emergency worker isoutside of a preset distance, the remote 10000 will trigger a fourthaudible alarm and/or vibrator alert using a piezoelectric element, forexample. Two way communication can be provided via a panic button on theremote LED unit that sends a signal to the hand held unit andcommunicating that a problem exists. The remote 10000 preferably canalso send a signal, alerting either individuals or all members of a teamthat a problem exists and that there is a need to evacuate. Preferably,2.4 GHz Digital RF Technology is used, but other frequencies can beused. Suitable RFID components can be obtained from Alien Technology,Miamisburg, Ohio 45342, 408-782-3900. FIG. 44 illustrates a variation ofthe conspicuity device 12000 for use with the aforementioned RFIDsystem, wherein a “double housing” 12010 is provided, wherein onehousing in the double housing includes components for manual activationas with the non-RFID embodiment, as well as a second housing forcontaining the RFID circuitry.

The methods and devices provided by the present invention, as describedabove and shown in the drawings, provide for conspicuity and safetydevices with superior properties as described herein. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications andvariations can be made in the embodiments of the present inventiondescribed herein without departing from the spirit or scope of theinvention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention includemodifications and variations that are within the scope of the appendedclaims and their equivalents.

1. A conspicuity device having a first end and a second end, comprising:a) an elongate fire resistant webbing portion; b) a fire resistantelastic portion attached to the webbing portion; and c) a couplingportion adapted and configured to selectively attach the first end ofthe band to the second end of the band; and d) an elongate lightingdevice attached to the tool band having a first end and a second end,the elongate lighting device defining a longitudinal axis bound by thefirst end and second end and a transverse axis, wherein the elongatelighting device defines a plurality of spaced relatively bright emittingsegments separated by relatively dimmer emitting segments.
 2. An airtank defining an outer surface including an electroluminescent lightingelement disposed beneath an outer surface of the tank.
 3. The air tankof claim 2, wherein the outer surface of the tank includes a transparentor translucent polymeric material that permits the lighting element tobe seen through the material.
 4. The air tank of claim 2, wherein theair tank includes an aluminum container wrapped in epoxy impregnatedfibers, wherein the lighting element is encased within an outer epoxylayer.
 5. An lighting device including at least one lighting elementdisposed within a fire-resistant encasement adapted and configured tohouse the lighting element, wherein the encasement includes a pluralityof layers of material bonded together to define a compartment betweenthe layers adapted and configured to receive the lighting element.